Peru bird flu: Thousands of pelicans found dead

More than 5,500 pelicans have died in Peru in recent weeks due to an outbreak of bird flu.

Several beaches are littered with the carcasses of the dead animals and some have also been found in protected areas.

In total, more than 13,000 birds have been killed by the H5N1 avian influenza strain, according to biologists.

Peruvian officials have declared a health alert to prevent its spread to farm poultry.