New rules mean all poultrykeepers must register their birds

All poultrykeepers will be required to log their flocks on the national register this autumn – even if they own just a few birds in a backyard flock.

Currently, only those who keep 50 birds or more are required to submit their details. But as part of a GB-wide move to tighten up on disease control in the wake of recent avian influenza outbreaks, this is being extended to all poultrykeepers.

See also: Why avian flu vaccine rollout would cost £1.5k/shed a month

By registering their birds, keepers will ensure they receive important updates relevant to them, such as local avian disease outbreaks and information on biosecurity rules to help protect their flocks. 

The register will also be used to identify all bird keepers in disease control zones, allowing for more effective surveillance.

Richard Griffiths, British Poultry Council chief executive, said: “Timely communication ensures all bird keepers receive important updates and stay informed, amplifying efforts to work together to track and control the spread of avian influenza.

“Alongside stringent biosecurity measures, registration is another tool in the toolbox to safeguard bird health.” 

Bird keepers will need to provide information, including their contact details, the location where birds are kept and details of the birds (species, number and what they are kept for).

In England and Wales, keepers are encouraged to register their birds ahead of the legal deadline on 1 October 2024.

In Scotland, keepers should register from 1 September 2024, when there will be a new Scottish Kept Bird Register in place.

The requirements will be set out in legislation shortly and keepers will also be legally required to update their information on an annual basis.

The changes come following the UK’s worst ever outbreak of avian influenza, with more than 360 cases across Great Britain since late October 2021, including in a significant number of backyard flocks.