Avian Flu in Europe
Over the last month there has been a serious avian flu outbreak travelling across continental Europe. This is being carried by wild birds who are then coming into contact with domestic fowl.
The Government has confirmed the following:
“Since 3 November, highly pathogenic avian influenza of subtype H5N8 has been found in dead wild birds in Austria, Croatia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine and the Russian Federation. These outbreaks have affected various wild bird species, including Tufted Ducks (Aythya fuligula), Common Pochard (Aythya ferina), gull species, wild geese, wild swans and various other wild waterfowl and raptors.”
At present there have been no cases in the UK, however the government – in order to contain and protect – has now put in place restrictions.
UK Restrictions for Avian Flu December 2016
These measures apply whether you have 2 hens or 20,000, and at present covers the whole of England. I would suggest though that even if you live beyond the current zone – so in Wales, Scotland, or Ireland – that you consider putting protection into place. EDIT: All Executives have now set the same restrictions. As such this now applies to all of the UK and at present in in effect until 05th January 2017.
The current 30 day restriction is as follows:
“Keepers of poultry and other captive birds are now required to keep their birds indoors, or take appropriate steps to keep them separate from wild birds.”
If you have a big enough coop the easiest option would be to contain them within. I know many have smaller coops that aren’t suitable for containment with food an water. In these circumstances you need to put in place a covered run or similar that will prevent wild birds coming into contact.
It needs to be remembered that migratory birds will fly over head and droppings can quickly pass contamination. As such ideally cover all sides of the run at upper levels and make sure the lower area is either covered or has such small mesh that no birds could come through. If you have a shed or other area you can contain your flock in this may be a good idea until the restrictions and risk has passed.
Keeping a clean coop and covered or enclosed run is more important that ever. Disinfect clothing and footwear before and after entering the coop or run, and keep contact to a minimum.
Penalty for Non-Co-Operation
Having checked with DEFRA, those who fail to comply will be looking at a hefty fine so please put these restrictions in place as soon as reasonably possible.
Signs of Avian Flu
It is important to keep a close eye on your flock during this time. The Government advises that:
“Clinical signs that poultry keepers should look for in their birds include a swollen head, discolouration of neck and throat, loss of appetite, respiratory distress, diarrhoea and fewer eggs laid – although these vary between species of bird.”
And further that:
“If poultry keepers or the general public find dead wild waterfowl (swans, geese or ducks) or gulls, or five or more dead wild birds of other species in the same location, they should report them to the Defra helpline by calling 03459 33 55 77”
Full Government Press Release
The full press release with regards to the Avian Flu outbreak and restrictions can be found here:
Thank you so much for this. Very useful!
Having first read the guidelines on the 6th of December I covered over the run of my two pet ducks with a tarpaulin. They are now terrified to leave their house and are off their food. Do you think they will settle down. Its breaking my heart to see them like this.
It will take a little time for them to adjust to changes. Hopefully by now they have calmed down and are used to the new living arrangements. I anticipate the restirctions being extended for at least a further 30 days at the start of next month.