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Pelicans in St. James's Park
St. James's Park

Latest update on Avian Influenza

During the current national outbreak of avian influenza, we have been advised by the Animal and Plant Health Agency to move the pelicans of St James’s Park to their enclosure on Duck Island as a precaution.

We want to reassure the public that all six pelicans are healthy, and we hope that they will be back out and about preening themselves by the lake, soon.

During the avian influenza outbreak we have been carrying out enhanced monitoring of our waterbodies across all parks to check for signs of illness and to ensure that any carcasses are removed immediately. To date, we have not been alerted to any nearby outbreaks of the disease, and we’ve not observed avian influenza in the birds that frequent the waterbodies.

The public can assist our efforts by not feeding or touching wildlife, and reporting any sick or dead birds seen in the Royal Parks to 0300 061 2000 or via email hq@royalparks.org.uk

For more information on avian flu visit Avian influenza (bird flu) - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Further reading

  • Pelicans on a bench in St. James's Park

    The pelicans of St. James's Park

    First introduced to the park in 1664, over 40 pelicans have since made the park their home. They are a popular sight with park visitors.

  • Summer bedding in St. James's Park

    St. James's Park

    Welcome to St. James’s Park, the oldest Royal Park at the heart of ceremonial London. Enjoy great views of the lake and fountain from St. James’s Café.

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