Dead Animals

Dead animals on public land

The Council will remove dead animals from open spaces, accessible to the public, including the pavements and highways. We aim to do this within two working days.    

Missing dogs and cats

Pets found dead will be scanned for a microchip and stored for seven days. If the details are available to us we will notify the owner.                    

Dead birds

Due to the potential bird flu risk, the public are advised to report the deaths of:

• One or more dead swans, ducks or geese, or;
• More than three dead birds of the same species, or;
• More than five dead birds of different species in the same place.

The details of the finding and location should be reported to Defra (08459 33 55 77).

Not all birds reported will be collected for testing; in these circumstances their disposal will become the responsibility of the landowner, or Welwyn and Hatfield Council in the case of public spaces. Risk assessments should be carried out, considering the location and accessibility of the carcass. Appropriate health and safety measures should also be taken.

The Defra website advises the public that if dead birds are handled, it is important to wash your hands with soap and water as quickly as possible. You may want to wear disposable gloves. You should avoid touching your face and eating until your hands have been washed.

To make us aware of a problem, please contact us.

Private property

Animals found dead on private property are the responsibility of the landowner. Their removal may be carried out by us upon notification but will attract a service charge of £23.50 including VAT.