New measures to higher shield the poultry sector from future avian influenza outbreaks have been set out by the UK Government.
Under the modifications lately introduced there might be new necessities for all fowl keepers — whatever the dimension of their flock — to formally register their birds.
Currently, solely those that hold 50 or extra poultry should achieve this.
By registering their birds, keepers will guarantee they obtain essential updates related to them, comparable to on any native avian illness outbreaks and knowledge on biosecurity guidelines to assist shield their flocks.
It is hoped it will assist to handle potential illness outbreaks, comparable to avian influenza and Newcastle illness, and restrict any unfold.
Orkney Islands Council’s buying and selling requirements supervisor, Gary Foubister, mentioned: “The info on the register will even be used to determine all fowl keepers in illness management zones, permitting for more practical surveillance, in order that zones might be lifted on the earliest doable alternative and commerce can resume extra rapidly following any outbreak of avian illness in Great Britain.
“As we have witnessed on several occasions Orkney is not immune to outbreaks, so it’s important for everyone with a flock, no matter the size, to officially register their birds.”
Bird keepers might want to present info, together with their contact particulars, the placement the place birds are stored and particulars of the birds (species, quantity and what they’re stored for).
In Scotland, keepers ought to register from September 1, when there might be a brand new Scottish Kept Bird Register in place.
The new guidelines cowl house owners of yard flocks, birds of prey and pigeon fanciers, however don’t have an effect on caged pet birds (excluding any poultry species) stored totally inside a home dwelling.
The necessities might be set out in laws shortly and keepers will even be legally required to update their info on an annual foundation.
Further info on the registration of birds might be discovered on www.gov.uk/government/news/new-measures-to-help-protect-poultry-industry-from-bird-flu
