BASC is advising members that an avian influenza prevention zone has today been declared for England, Wales and Scotland.
The zone covers the whole of England, Wales and Scotland and will remain in place for 30 days.
The zone requires the immediate and compulsory housing of domestic chickens, hens, turkeys and ducks, or where this is not practical, their complete separation from contact with wild birds. For farmed geese, gamebirds and other captive birds, keepers should take practical steps to keep these birds separate from wild birds.
BASC has sought the advice of the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), who confirmed there is no ban on shooting.
More details here:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu#prevention-zone
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-measures-to-protect-poultry-against-avian-flu
No cases have been reported or found in the UK.
BASC will continue to monitor the situation and issue further updates. For guidance contact the Game and Deer team on 01244 573 019.
Members can also sign up for automatic notifications of notifiable animal disease outbreaks in Great Britain by visiting: http://animalhealth.system-message.co.uk/AH_subscribe_index.php
How to spot avian influenza (bird flu), what to do if you suspect it, and measures to prevent it. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu
Members in Northern Ireland can find out more information at https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/avian-influenza-ai