"It's like a death sentence" is what a local expert said of Avian influenza (bird flu) and the impact he thinks it is having on Kenilworth's young swans.

Locals have witnessed a family of swans in Abbey Fields dwindle over the winter.

Residents have taken to Facebook to share and discuss the cygnets' progress since they hatched last year and have become increasingly concerned about their wellbeing.

In recent weeks, the young swans have been going missing; some have been found dead around Abbey Fields, and others have completely disappeared.

While the cause of death has not been officially confirmed, local wildlife volunteer Cyril Bennis believes bird flu is to blame.

He told Nub News: "Avian influenza has had a detrimental effect on wildlife and particularly on swans and cygnets."

Cyril added: "There is no escape route. It's like a death sentence that hangs over them each year.

"We just can't continue, wildlife can't continue, we can't continue to suffer."

Cyril said bird flu has swept across the country, with recent cases also reported in nearby Stratford-upon-Avon and Ryton Pools Country Park.

He said the increase in cases "doesn't bode well for the future."

Locals have been worried about the yougn swans in Abbey Fields (image by Isabelle Miller)

A former Mayor of Stratford-upon-Avon, Cyril has seen the impact of bird flu on a larger scale in Shakespeare's town. Stratford reportedly lost 40 cygnets in the last year alone, with 120 in total dying from the illness over the last five years.

There is currently no vaccine to protect birds against bird flu.

Cyril emphasised the difficulties of dealing with the disease: "I wish there was an easier way to say this, but it's a mammoth task to try to eliminate the avian flu.

"From the public's point of view, they're absolutely magnificent. They've always been right there [helping]."

While bird flu will likely continue to have a devastating impact around the UK, Cyril said there are some things locals can do to minimise the risk of cygnets from falling ill in future.

He said the best way for locals to help is to "make sure that their shoes are clean." Avian flu is largely spread between birds through animal droppings, and clean shoes can help to limit how far the droppings are spread.

Locals can also help prevent outbreaks from spreading further.

Cyril said: "It's so important that the authorities are informed quickly so that they can advise people to be very aware that Avian flu has been identified in that area."

He also encourages respect for the swans. Dogs should be kept on leads near the birds and their nests, and people should keep their distance. He said: "They are protective of their young and will do everything in their power to make sure they are protected.

"We've got to show respect for it, and they'll show respect to us."

He said: "They're going through a very challenging time, and we've just got to give them a helping hand, and that's what it's all about, right?"

Locals can report any dead swans or concerns to the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) helpline at 0345 988 1188.

They will test any deceased birds for the flu to help to prevent a full outbreak. Cyril also encourages the public to reach out to local wildlife volunteers like himself.

Warwickshire County Council released a statement this week after the confirmed bird flu cases in Stratford and Ryton.

Dr Shade Agboola, Director of Public Health, said: "We're keeping a close eye on avian flu in wild birds.

"Residents can help by avoiding sick or dead birds and reporting any they find to DEFRA.

"These simple steps, along with ongoing monitoring and preparedness measures, mean we're well placed to keep everyone safe."