Bird Flu Alert: Free-Range Chickens Must Stay Safe from Wild Birds
Chickens can now roam free again, but poultry keepers must stay sharp to stop contact with wild birds. Kent County Council (KCC) warns that bird flu remains a risk despite loosened rules.
Bird Flu Hits Close to Home
The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has confirmed a case of the H5N1 bird flu strain near Bexhill-on-Sea, just over the border in East Sussex. This virus, deadly to poultry, circulates naturally in wild birds and can easily spread.
Since last October, over 101 cases of H5N1 have been reported across the UK. While the government lifted mandatory housing rules for birds in May, the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) remains active to keep infection levels in check.
Keepers Urged to Boost Biosecurity
All bird owners, whether running large farms or small backyard flocks, must enforce strict biosecurity measures. This means disinfecting surfaces regularly and fencing off ponds or standing water to stop wild birds mingling with domestic flocks.
While lifting housing measures was welcome, recent cases show Kent keepers must stay vigilant and uphold strong biosecurity,” said Mike Hill, KCC Cabinet Member for Community and Regulatory Services.
Public Safety: Don’t Touch Sick or Dead Birds
The UK Health Security Agency stresses that the risk to humans is very low. The Food Standards Agency also confirms cooked poultry products and eggs are safe to eat.
But if you spot sick or dead swans, geese, ducks, gulls or birds of prey in the wild, do not touch them. Call the Defra Helpline immediately on 03459 33 55 77.
“Your reports help APHA track and control the spread of bird flu,” added Mike Hill.
Kent Ready for Outbreaks
Last year, a dangerous bird flu strain was found in wild swans during routine checks at Stodmarsh, Kent. Should an outbreak occur, KCC Trading Standards will work with Emergency Planning and APHA to enforce protective measures.
“Good housekeeping is your best defence against bird flu,” said Steve Rock, Head of Kent Trading Standards.
“Report any signs of illness in your birds to Defra Rural Services Helpline at 03000 200 301. And if you have over 50 birds, you must register your flock by law.”
Even small-scale bird keepers are urged to register to receive important updates and advice in a crisis.
Keep updated and find more advice at gov.uk/avian-influenza-bird-flu.
