Read our updated gudiance on Avian Influenza Prevention Zones
DEFRA have announced that from the 13th April the additional requirements to house or net poultry in Higher Risk Areas of England will be lifted. Keepers are advised to take active steps to prepare their ranges.
Preparing your range:
• Do not feed birds on the range or cover to restrict access by wild birds.
• No drinkers on the range or cover to restrict access by wild birds.
• Scare wild birds from or near the range (within 100m) – follow the NFU Bird Scarers Code of Practice.
• Check the range regularly throughout the day.
• Remove carcases of wild birds in a biosecure manner – report to DEFRA, wear gloves and double bag.
• Regularly cleanse and disinfect concrete walkways and hard standing areas on the range.
• If there are footpaths on the range put signs and boot dips at entry and exit points or apply to the local authority for a diversion (permanent or temporary).
For more information please see DEFRA's updated measures to protect poultry against Avian Flu
The lifting of the housing requirement has come after the latest scientific evidence and veterinary advice concluded that the level of risk to poultry in the Higher Risk Areas has now reduced to that across the rest of England. This is due to changes in the wild bird population: two thirds of over-wintering migratory birds have now left the UK and resident wild waterfowl are at their lowest levels and entering the breeding season when they become less likely to move long distances to forage for food.
Keepers are advised that the risk of poultry becoming infected from H5N8 remains heightened and countries across Europe continue to experience outbreaks and observe cases in wild birds. Surveillance has also been stepped up of wild birds across the UK to inform further risk assessments.
All other biosecurity measures including the additional measures for commercial keepers with more than 500 birds will remain in force until further notice.
The ban on poultry gatherings also remains in force until further notice.
There is not yet an end date on the amended Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) but the situation, including the ban on shows and gatherings, is under continual review.