The Animal & Plant Health Agency has confirmed that highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been confirmed at a second premises near Attleborough, Breckland, Norfolk.

All bird keepers should remain vigilant and follow stringent biosecurity measures to prevent future outbreaks.

The Government maintains that all bird keepers of pet birds, commercial flocks or ‘even just a few birds in a backyard’ must keep a close watch on them for signs of disease and maintain good biosecurity at all times. Bird keepers are encouraged to register poultry – which includes chickens, ducks, turkeys, geese, pigeon (bred for meat), partridge, quail, guinea fowl and pheasants – so they can be contacted during a bird flu outbreak. Registration of birds is a legal requirement for keepers of 50 or more.

Avian influenza is a notifiable animal disease. If you suspect any type of avian influenza in poultry or captive birds you must report it immediately by calling the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301. In Wales, contact 0300 303 8268. In Scotland, contact your local Field Services Office. Failure to do so is an offence.

Reporting dead wild birds

You should call the Defra helpline (03459 33 55 77) if you find:

  • one or more dead bird of prey or owl
  • three or more dead gulls or wild waterfowl (swans, geese and ducks)
  • five or more dead birds of any species

Do not touch or pick up any dead or visibly sick birds that you find. For further information see the Government’s advice to the public.

More information is available on GOV.UK at: https://www.gov.uk/bird-flu

See the latest bird flu news from The Country Smallholder here.

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