The public have been warned not to touch dead birds after a swan was found dead in a plastic bag in Musselburgh.

East Lothian Countryside Rangers were made aware of a deceased swan being found in a bag at a public toilet on Shorthope Street in Musselburgh by the River Esk today.

When the rangers attended the scene the swan had already been removed.

East Lothian Council has expressed concern about the situation given that bird flu has been detected in East Lothian in recent weeks.

East Lothian Council has warned people not to touch dead birds and to report dead birds to DEFRA and sick birds to the SSPCA immediately if you find any.

An East Lothian Council spokesperson said: “Avian flu is present in East Lothian and we would advise people to not touch dead or sick birds and keep dogs away, bird flu has been detected in mammals and there is a very small but real risk to us.

“Report dead birds to DEFRA via www.gov.uk/guidance/report-dead-wild-birds

“Report sick birds to the SSPCA on 0300 099 9999.”