Bird keepers
People who keep birds and poultry are being reminded about new rules being introduced in October 2024 to help reduce avian flu.
Previous registration was only required for keepers of more than 50 birds. From 1 October 2024, anyone who keeps birds must register them with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA). The law applies to all birdkeepers, whether it’s a large commercial farm or someone with a single bird.
Wild birds migrating from mainland Europe during the winter period can spread Avian influenza to poultry and other captive birds. The disease can have a devastating impact on local bird populations and the poultry industry.
Bird keepers can reduce the risk of the disease by
- keeping the area where birds live clean and tidy, controlling rats and mice and regularly cleansing and disinfecting any hard surfaces
- cleaning footwear before and after visits
- placing birds’ feed and water in fully enclosed areas that are protected from wild birds, and removing any spilled feed regularly
- putting fencing around outdoor areas where birds are allowed and limiting their access to ponds or areas visited by wild waterfowl
- where possible, avoid keeping ducks and geese with other poultry species.
The new rules cover owners of backyard flocks,
birds of prey and pigeon fanciers, but do not affect caged pet birds (excluding
any poultry species) kept entirely inside a domestic dwelling, such as a
parrot, canary or budgie, which never leaves the property other than to visit a
vet or another short-term period.
Further information on the new law is available on the gov.uk website
Avian Flu
The UK has self-declared zonal freedom from highly pathogenic avian influenza. This will begin in Great Britain from 29 March 2024.
This abides by the Avian Influenza - WOAH - World Organisation for Animal Health rules.
Find out the latest information and guidance on Bird flu (avian influenza): latest situation in England - GOV.UK
If you suspect a case of bird flu, report it by contacting DEFRA, telephone 03000 200 301
Animal virus and disease guidance
You may keep other animals please use our guidance and advice to help you manage any of the notifiable diseases in animals. You are legally obliged to report notifiable diseases.