The UK is currently in the midst of an unprecedented outbreak of Avian Influenza (AI) and the winter migration of wild birds to the UK means that the situation is likely to get worse before it gets better.

Surveillance of avian influenza suggests a heightened risk of Avian Influenza in Wales over the winter months. Therefore, from Friday 2 December, new compulsory biosecurity and housing requirements have been introduced for poultry and captive birds in Wales.

It is a legal requirement for all keepers to keep their birds indoors or otherwise separated from wild birds.

One way which backyard flock owners can be kept informed of the current situation and be advised of any cases in their area is to register their flock. They would also be provided with the latest advice and guidance on how to keep their flock safe.

We would be grateful if you could make your local community aware of how to register their flock, information on how to do this is outlined below.
We would also been grateful if the attached posters (Welsh and English) are placed in prominent positions within your community.

How to Register?

You must register poultry flocks of 50 or more birds that you own or are responsible for. We would strongly encourage those with less than 50 birds to register as well. They don’t have to all be the same species. This applies even if your premises are only stocked for part of the year.

You should register your poultry within one month of their arrival at your premises.

By email – Complete the registration form available at GOV.UK: Poultry (including game birds) – registration rules and forms (external website) and email it to customerregistration@apha.gsi.gov.uk.

There are guidance notes to help you complete the form. Welsh versions of the registration form and guidance notes are also available.

By phone – Ask for a registration form by contacting the GB Poultry Register Helpline on 0800 634 1112. Lines are open 8:30am to 5:00pm Monday to Friday.

For the latest update on Avian Influenza in Wales please follow this link Welsh Government: Avian influenza (bird flu) – latest update