Dead crows sent for tests

9:37pm Monday 14th July 2008

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DEAD and dying crows in a Dorchester road triggered an investigation by environmental health officers.

Cyril Smalldon said he was walking along Bowling Alley Walk when he saw the birds.

He said: "There were four or five dead crows lying on the grass. One was still just about alive and a young woman picked it up and put it on a wall out of harm's way.

"I told her to wash her hands carefully - you don't know what might have been the matter with it."

Mr Smalldon said he was surprised at the sight of the dead birds.

Graham Duggan, acting environmental team leader with West Dorset District Council, said: "The dead crows have been removed and two retained for any tests which might be needed.

"We have also informed the police wildlife officer."

A spokesman for the district council said: "These matters are usually dealt with by DEFRA - the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

"However, in this case the police contacted us and we sent one of our environmental health officers to the site to try to find out what has happened to these birds.

"Investigations are currently ongoing."

She said there was no evidence suggesting bird flu but advised that anyone finding dead birds should check the defra.gov.uk website or call the helpline on 08459 335577.