In 2023 the UK saw a major bird flu outbreak among poultry and captive birds in both commercial farms and residential backyard flocks. Thankfully, the UK does not currently have any reported outbreaks of bird flu in poultry or other captive birds, though it is still present in the wild bird population. In order to prevent the spread of the disease and another potential outbreak, the government has announced mandatory registration of all poultry and captive birds, regardless of flock size, from October 1st 2024. Registration is an easy process via this online form and should only take around 10 minutes. Registration means you will get updates and guidance if there is a disease outbreak in your area; this will help protect your birds, and you’ll be helping to reduce the risk of the disease spreading.
How can I help prevent bird flu?
- If you are a chicken keeper, adhere to excellent biosecurity and hygiene protocols. This government website has a great overview of the steps you should take to protect your birds.
- Report any suspected bird flu cases to the APHA.
- Do not touch any dead wild birds, report them via this website or by calling 03459 33 55 7. Report any sick or injured wild birds to the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999 and do not touch them.
What do I do if I need to bring a chicken to see a vet at Heathfield Vets?
If your chicken is sick or injured, call us on 01435 864422 to speak to a member of our team. You will be asked some general screening questions about your bird’s health. If we suspect that your chicken may be suffering from bird flu we will direct you to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) via Defra Rural Services Helpline 03000 200 301 to speak to an APHA vet. If the APHA vet confirms that bird flu is not suspected, please take their details and call us back to confirm so that we can book an appointment.
We do not allow chickens to wait in our main waiting room and kindly ask that they remain in your car. Please call or pop into reception to let us know that you have arrived and your vet will come out to you. Your vet will then assess if it is safe for your chicken to enter the practice or will conduct a car park consult.
Call us on 01435 864422 if you have concerns about your chicken’s health.
