Following a number of confirmed cases of avian influenza (bird flu), including cases in captive birds in Cumbria and North Yorkshire, the government has brought in new measures to protect poultry and captive birds from avian influenza.  
 

This means that with immediate effect, it is now a legal requirement for all bird keepers across the UK to keep their birds indoors - whether they have pet birds, commercial flocks or just a few birds in a backyard flock. This is in addition to existing requirements for strict biosecurity measures to be put in place to help limit the spread of the disease and keep flocks safe. 
 

If a member of the public comes across a dead wild bird, they are asked to report it to DEFRA on 03459 335577 (select option 7) and not to touch or pick up any dead or visibly sick birds. Providing good location information for a dead or diseased bird is particularly important and location apps such as 'what3words', references can be very helpful. 
 
Philip Soderquest Head of housing and public protection at Northumberland County Council said: 
 
“Wild birds migrating to the UK from mainland Europe during the winter months can carry the disease and where wild birds are allowed to mix with domestic poultry this can lead to the disease spreading to captive birds. 
 

“Unfortunately, there have been some confirmed cases of avian influenza in wild birds in the northern coastal area of Northumberland and in captive birds in the northern regions, so it is especially important that local bird keepers adhere to these new rules.” 
 

UK Health Security Agency has confirmed that the risk to public health is very low and the Food Standards Agency has said that bird flu poses a very low food safety risk for UK consumers and it does not affect the consumption of poultry or eggs. 
 

Bird keepers are also advised to be vigilant for any signs of disease in their birds and any wild birds, report suspected disease immediately and seek prompt advice from their vet if they have any concerns. 

  

For further advice