| Author: Peter Bryant | Title: RPRA Press Release |
| Date: 2006-03-08 17:17:17 | Uploaded by: webmaster |
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British pigeon fanciers are extremely angered by irresponsible and inaccurate reports from supposed ‘experts’ over claims that pigeons could become infected with avian influenza (AI) and are a threat to public health. Dr Bob McCracken, the former president of the British Veterinary Association, has stated that if avian flu arrived in Britain, free-range hens, geese and ducks should all be brought under cover to avoid contact with wild birds. But he added that pigeon fanciers should keep their birds indoors and were a threat.
Dr McCracken clearly has not had sight of the considerable veterinary research that has been conducted on the effects of AI on racing pigeons. This has concluded that racing pigeons are resistant or minimally susceptible to infection of High Pathogenic AI or Low Pathogenic AI. Dr Colin Walker of Australia says, “…pigeons can catch AI but tend to be a rather resistant species so that if they do become infected the systems are fairly mild, they quickly recover and the carrier state does not apply”.
The Royal Pigeon Racing Association General Manager Peter Bryant said, “We are fed up with the ill informed commentary and prejudice concerning racing pigeons. We have been working closely with DEFRA to ensure that racing, showing and sales of racing pigeons can continue. This decision was based on the significant research available in the public domain. Our members will follow the general licence conditions imposed by DEFRA. Contingencies are in hand should an outbreak of AI be confirmed in Britain and Britain’s fanciers will act accordingly and appropriately.”
Gerry Francis, TV pundit and former England soccer captain, and avid pigeon fancier, said, “I am a responsible father of 3 children, Adam 12, Chloe 10 and Jake 8. I certainly would not put my children at risk. If you study all the scientific data regarding AI available at the present time PIGEONS would be the one bird you would be happy to keep. In fact pigeons may become a great help in finding a cure to AI due to their resistance to the virus. Significant research has already been carried out on racing pigeons and they carry little risk of transmitting or catching AI. There is no reason for them to be locked up.”
More information:
Peter Bryant, General Manager Royal Pigeon Racing Association
Tel: 01452 713529 Fax: 01452 857119
E mail: gm@rpra.org
Contact Gerry Francis through the General Manager
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