The latest resource to be added to the Battle Bluetongue toolkit, the Bluetongue Movements Checker, has been created to help farmers navigate the complex and changing bluetongue serotype 3 (BTV-3) restrictions that are impacting livestock movement between England, Scotland and Wales.
The Bluetongue Movements Checker tool from Ruminant Health & Welfare (RH&W) and AHDB is an interactive and online system which allows farmers to find out the correct advice and licensing requirements for moving animals within GB, depending on the specific situation, location and nature of the movement.
Dr Mandy Nevel, head of animal health and welfare for AHDB and a member of RH&W, said: “The Devolved Governments in Scotland and Wales will still require pre-movement testing of animals coming from the England Restricted Zone, in most cases.
“We know the changing policy landscape for bluetongue is leading to questions for farmers about what they need to do to be able to move livestock, especially across borders within GB.”
The all-England Restriction Zone is being enforced from July 1, 2025 onwards.
Experts from RH&W, AHDB, Welsh and Scottish governments have jointly contributed to enable this movement checker tool to be robust so farmers can find correct and up to date information about moving livestock, whatever the situation.
It provides specific answers for moves to other farm premises, shows, markets or abattoirs at all times, taking into account the devolved Government policies on Bluetongue across England, Wales and Scotland.
“It’s really easy to use and helpful to find out all the information I need about a particular livestock movement by visiting one web page and running through the simple questions to ascertain what I am allowed to do, rather than checking various different sources.”
Ms Millington added: “I’m really pleased that Ruminant Health and Welfare have been so proactive in creating this tool that is easy to access and provides clear and instant advice on the most up to date regulations to make our life a little simpler, something that is much needed at this time.”
Find the Bluetongue Movements Checker tool, by clicking here.
