The RSPCA has issued important advice to poultry pet owners ahead of the winter months to help keep their birds safe from the spread of avian influenza.
As migratory wild waterfowl, including ducks and geese, are now returning to the UK over winter, the risk of avian influenza unfortunately increases. The RSPCA is urging people with backyard flocks to ensure they are following the UK and Welsh Government’s biosecurity advice to keep their pets as protected as possible.
Top advice
- Keep the area where birds live clean and tidy and regularly disinfect any hard surfaces;
- Clean footwear before and after visits;
- Place birds’ feed and water in fully enclosed areas that are protected from wild birds, and remove any spilled feed regularly;
- Put fencing around outdoor areas where birds are allowed and limit their access to any ponds or areas visited by wild waterfowl; and
- Where possible, avoid keeping ducks and geese with other poultry species.
Charlotte Arthur, poultry expert at the RSPCA, said: “We are sadly once again entering the time of year when bird flu becomes more prevalent. Governments are issuing important biosecurity advice for poultry pet owners to try and control the spread of the disease after a confirmed case was found in Scotland recently.
“Whilst no housing order or other measures have been put in place currently, it’s important for pet owners to be mindful that over the coming months this is likely to become a reality.
“Keeping hens has become increasingly popular in recent years so it’s important that new and experienced owners alike follow official biosecurity advice, staying vigilant for signs of disease and ill health in their flocks, and seeking veterinary advice if they have any concerns for their birds.”
