Avian influenza (bird flu)

02 December 2021 at 12:02:32

Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) - Updated 1 December 2021

Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ): Whole of Great Britain

A Great Britain-wide Avian Influenza Prevention Zone   (AIPZ) has been introduced and includes the requirement to house birds. This took effect from 00:01 am on 29 November 2021.  This means strict biosecurity measures for all bird keepers (including those who keep pet birds) to help prevent the spread of avian influenza from wild birds or any other source.

Further advice for  bird keepers is available on the Scottish Government webpage avian influenza (bird flu) outbreaks)  .

Dead or sick wild birds: what to do

Wild birds can carry several diseases that are infectious to people, so do not touch or pick up any dead or visibly sick birds that you find.  If you find a single dead wild waterfowl (swans, geese or ducks), a single dead bird of prey, or five or more dead wild birds of any other species (including gulls) at the same place at the same time, you should report them to Defra's national telephone helpline: 03459 33 55 77 (please select option 7).

It is advisable that you do not touch these birds.

Further information is available on the Scottish Government webpage avian influenza (bird flu): how to spot and report the disease.