FEARS birds could develop a deadly disease is the latest worry at drought-hit reserves across north Kent.

Recent dry weather means birds are at a higher risk of contracting botulism, which is caused by bacteria forming in stagnant water.

A number of birds have recently been found dead in London after they contracted the disease.

There are fears birds in north Kent are at risk from botulism because the marshes are drying up.

RSPB North Kent Marshes spokesman Chris Drake says stagnant water is a breeding ground for bugs.

He added the drought has meant this is a "tough time" for RSPB reserves in the north Kent marshes.

80% fewer wading birds

Numbers of lapwing, redshank and snipe have plummeted by as much as 80 per cent in one reserve.

The popular bird-watching spots are drying up after low rainfall during the past two winters, destroying the boggy grassland and damp meadows which birds use to nest and feed.

Leader of RSPB Gravesend Local Group Malcolm Jennings said the charity might be forced to give up its reserves if all the birds leave.

Mr Drake said rain would be "very welcome" at the moment.

Wet weather dilutes stagnant pools, meaning birds drinking at the water's edge do not ingest as much bacteria.

Mr Drake said: "The drought has had the effect of drying up the marshes. We have pools which are drying up.

"It's a tough time. Hopefully we are going to get more wet weather."

People who come across dead birds are being urged to be cautious and to get expert help in removing the carcasses.