Eleven swans died at Loughaderra Lake, Ireland, due to H5N1 avian flu, prompting nationwide bird housing orders.

Eleven dead swans were found at Loughaderra Lake in east Cork on March 13, 2026, with a total of 15 dead swans reported, including two seen struggling. The Department of Agriculture confirmed a case of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in a dead bird from the lake on March 11. Despite Ireland being declared free of HPAI in January, a recent poultry outbreak near Omagh has prompted a nationwide precautionary housing order. Officials are testing targeted birds for surveillance, but cannot remove wild carcasses, leaving disposal to landowners. Public health warnings advise against touching sick or dead birds. No human transmission has been detected.