The British Isles, closed due to avian flu, are reopening to tourists
The National Trust is preparing to reopen a group of British islands that have been closed to tourists for two years due to an outbreak of bird flu. Among them are the Inner Farnes off Northumberland, home to 200,000 seabirds, including puffins, as well as gray seals.
The islands were hit by the deadly disease in 2022, resulting in the deaths of more than 6,000 birds. There were also fears that local animals would be wiped out, so the islands were closed to protect the birds, as reported by DailyStar.
However, last year, the number of dead birds decreased by 39% to 3,600, which is a good sign that the danger is slowly passing. Currently, experts believe that the birds are developing immunity to the disease, although they will continue to be closely monitored. This means that human tourists will soon be able to travel to the paradise islands and enjoy their flora and fauna.
Experts also claim that the disease among birds has already decreased, and the latest research helps to implement the right measures to care for the birds. Therefore, starting from March 25, the islands will once again welcome visitors with boat trips offering magnificent views of wildlife.
In addition, tourists are also invited to explore the cultural history of the island, including St. Cuthbert's Chapel and the Inner Farn Lighthouse. From there, you can observe the population of gray seals and even see the cubs born in the fall.
As the authors of the article emphasize, tickets for adults cost from £13, and children's tickets from £6.50. Family tickets are also available.
To get to the area, tourists should travel to Seahouse Harbor, take the train to Chathill, four miles (not available every Sunday, limited service), Alnmouth (Alnwick), and Berwick, then take a taxi or bus to the harbor or travel by bike.
Meanwhile, a traveling cat was found in the UK. According to TravelWise, the animal returned after 4 years.