More than 200 dead birds have been removed from Rye Harbour Nature Reserve as efforts continue to tackle a suspected outbreak of avian botulism.
Sussex Wildlife Trust says staff and volunteers from its Land Management team have been collecting affected birds from around Castle Water while wearing protective clothing.
The northern section of Castle Water has been surveyed, with more than 200 birds removed so far.
Species affected include ducks, swans and other water birds, with further surveys and collections due to take place.
The Wildlife Trust says quickly removing dead birds is an important part of bringing an outbreak under control.
Dead birds can become a source of botulism toxin, while maggots feeding on carcasses can accumulate the toxin before being eaten by otherwise healthy birds.
This can result in further illness and deaths among wildlife.
The dead birds collected at Rye Harbour have been recorded by species and location before being safely removed.
Samples have also been provided to the Animal and Plant Health Agency for testing to establish whether avian botulism is responsible.
Sussex Wildlife Trust says it will provide further information once the test results are known.
Avian botulism is caused by a toxin which can be produced by naturally occurring bacteria, particularly during warmer weather.
The Trust says the condition poses a very low risk to humans, although dogs can become seriously ill if they eat an affected bird or drink contaminated water.
Visitors are being urged to take precautions while the suspected outbreak is investigated.
Castle Water remains closed to the public, although the rest of Rye Harbour Nature Reserve and its Discovery Centre remain open.
Visitors are being asked to follow signs at the reserve, keep dogs on leads and prevent them from entering the water.
People are also being advised to avoid contact with the water and not to touch any sick, injured or dead wildlife.
Anyone finding dead birds is asked to report them to the DEFRA helpline on 0345 933 5577.
Sussex Wildlife Trust thanked visitors for their support and cooperation during the outbreak and says further monitoring and bird collections will continue.
Get the latest ALERTS for BREAKING NEWS in the SOUTH on your phone by downloading the V2 RADIO APP today!
V2VOUCHERS.CO.UK is offering half-price deals on a wide range of experiences across the South, from meals out at local restaurants to tickets for some of the region’s biggest events.
Eastbourne man charged with multiple assault offences following police investigation
Mystery object reported in skies above Gosport
Free Portsmouth weekend bus travel in September
Police appeal after pedestrian suffers life-threatening injuries in Southsea collision
Sussex residents asked for views on safety and future of policing
Specialist ambulance teams practise chemical incident response in West Sussex
Global women in sport leaders gather in Chichester for leadership academy
Portsmouth FC legend Alan Knight dies aged 65
WATCH: Lewes railway line reopens after major repairs following train derailment
Eastbourne pastor Robert Guanco named as man killed at Big Church Festival - Updated at 19:02 30.08.2026
On Air