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FOR ALLOTMENT HOLDERS AND OTHER BIRD KEEPERS
THE FOLLOWING GUIDLINES ARE FROM DEFRA AND MUST BE FOLLOWED WITH REGARD TO AVIAN INFLUENZA
All poultry and captive birds, to be housed or, where it is not practical to do so, require steps to be taken to keep them separate from wild birds. Remember to check for, and remove, hazardous and toxic substances such as rat bait, and make sure the birds have access to water and somewhere to perch. You must practice good biosecurity-for example disinfecting footwear and washing clothing after contact with birds.
There are two types of avian influenza (HPAI) is the more serious type.it is often fatal in birds. The main clinical signs of HPAI in birds are:
- swollen head
- blue discolouration of neck and throat loss of appetite
- respiratory distress such as gaping beak, coughing, sneezing, gurgling, rattling
- diarrhoea
- fewer eggs laid
- increased mortality
Clinical signs can vary between species of bird and some species may show minimal clinical signs (ducks and geese).
Low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) is usually less serious. It can cause mild breathing problems, but affected birds will not always show clear signs of infection.
The severity of LPAI depends on the type of bird and whether it has any other illnesses. Anyone who keeps poultry must keep a close watch on them for any signs of disease, and must seek prompt advice from their vet if they have any concerns.
All bird keepers should take extra biosecurity steps
How avian influenza is spread
The disease spreads from bird to bird by direct contact or through contaminated body fluids and faeces.
- minimising direct and indirect contact between poultry and wild birds
- making sure that feed and water cant be accessed by wild birds
Avian influenza isn’t an airborne disease.
Poultry keepers must continue to follow the existing animal welfare rules: http://www.gov.uk/government/publications/poultry-on-farms-welfare
Pigeons or birds of prey
You can still fly pigeons or birds of prey, but you should try to prevent them from making direct contact with (or catching) wildfowl.
Keep a close watch on the health of your birds. If you have any further questions please email daryl.wood@northumberland.gov.uk