Avian Influenza and Catching Up

As things wind down on the shoot front and birds are being caught up, it’s worth noting that the rules associated with the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ), in place for England, Wales and Scotland, were updated by Defra before Christmas. These are a legal requirement. 

A summary of the key points that apply when catching up and moving birds are below. 

Catching up: Applies to all sites

• If you are catching up birds, you need to be on the poultry register
• Caught up birds must not be moved for a minimum of 21 days (the 21 days start once the last bird is caught), unless: 
  • You have a licence – get in touch with our team to arrange the necessary checks 
  • Birds are being moved within the same site 
• You cannot catch from different shoots and quarantine them together before moving them to the layer site. This is technically a bird gathering and not permitted. 
• Caught up birds must be kept away from wild birds in an area that is fully covered/enclosed with wire mesh less than 25mm. If birds can’t be fully enclosed, speak to your vet as you’ll need a biosecurity declaration 
• Keep a record of the number of birds that were caught and the date they were caught 
• Feed and water should be covered, and birds should not have access to open/running water

This link details all the rules that apply once birds have been caught up, including all the biosecurity measures: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/bird-flu-avian-influenza-how-to-prevent-it-and-stop-it-spreading

During quarantine

• Keep records of all movements, mortality, personal etc during the 21 days
• Keep handling to a minimum and consider using ABC pH or Ultimate Acid to support gut health 
• Check the birds at least twice a day
• Remove any mortality promptly from the pens 
• Blood test as soon as possible 
• Worm treat to stop transfer to the new site 

Moving birds after 21 days 

Most movements in and out of Avian Influenza disease control zones are not permitted. However, there are instances where low risk activities or movement are possible, provided that all conditions are met. Get in touch if you would like more information. 

Current situation for bird movement post 21 days 

A reminder that by default, all sites are within the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone in Great Britain. Where a Temporary Control Zone is in place, it’s unlikely that any licences will be approved (as they tend to be short-term). 

• If you are sending or receiving birds in a 3km or 10km zone, give us a call to discuss your options