Important new rules for poultry keepers to reduce the risk of Avian Flu

An Avian Influenza Prevention Zone has been declared in England, effective from 5pm on Friday 11th November.

This means that all bird keepers in England, whether they have pet birds, a commercial flock or just a few birds in a backyard flock are required by law to adopt a range of biosecurity precautions.

In addition to the requirements of the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone, new housing measures will come into force at 12:01am on Monday 14th December.

The new housing measures mean it will be a legal requirement for all bird keepers to keep their birds indoors, except in very specific circumstances, and follow strict biosecurity measures to try to eradicate the disease.

If you keep poultry or other captive birds you must take action to reduce the risk of disease in your flock by following the advice on biosecurity.

To ensure good biosecurity, all poultry keepers should:

• Minimize movement in and out of bird enclosures.
• Clean footwear before and after visiting birds, using a DEFRA-approved disinfectant at entrances and exits.
• Clean and disinfect vehicles and equipment that have come into contact with poultry.
• Keep areas where birds live clean and tidy, and regularly disinfect hard surfaces such as paths and walkways.
• Humanely control rats and mice.
• Place birds’ food and water in fully-enclosed areas protected from wild birds, and remove any spilled feed regularly.
• Make sure there is no direct contact with poultry or other captive birds on other neighboring premises.
• Avoid keeping ducks and geese with other poultry species, where possible.
• Keep birds separate from wildlife and wild waterfowl by putting suitable fencing around outdoor areas they access.

You must keep a close watch on your birds for any signs of disease, and must seek prompt advice from your vet if you have any concerns.

If you suspect any type of avian influenza you must report it immediately by calling DEFRA Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301.

More information is available at www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu or by calling Hartlepool Borough Council’s Trading Standards Team on 01429 523362.