The introduction of new registration requirements means that bird keepers have to register their birds and update their records annually.
The new measures, which have been set out by the government, aim to better protect the poultry sector from future avian influenza outbreaks.
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 other short-term period.
Under these changes, there will be requirements for all bird keepers - regardless of the size of their flock - to officially register their birds. Previously only those who keep 50 or more poultry must do so, limiting the effectiveness of our national disease control measures.
By registering their birds, keepers will ensure they receive important updates relevant to them, such as on any local avian disease outbreaks and information on biosecurity rules to help protect their flocks.
This will help to manage potential disease outbreaks, such as avian influenza and Newcastle disease, and limit any spread.
Cllr Philippa Leonard, Cabinet Member for Planning & Public Protection said
“By registering keepers not only protect their own birds but contribute to the wider efforts to monitor and control avian diseases. I urge all keepers to register their flock to ensure the protection of all our bird populations ahead of the change in requirements coming into force from October.”
The information on the register will also be used to identify all bird keepers in potential disease control zones, allowing for more effective surveillance, so that zones can be lifted at the earliest possible opportunity and trade can resume more quickly in the event an outbreak of avian disease was to occur.
Bird keepers will need to provide information, including their contact details, the location where birds are kept and details of the birds (species, number and what they are kept for).
In England and Wales keepers are encouraged to register their birds ahead of the legal deadline on 1 October 2024.
You can register via the UK Gov website. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/register-as-a-keeper-of-less-than-50-poultry-or-other-captive-birds