Proposals have been revealed that would force all poultry owners in the UK to register their birds. Until now, this was only required for those with more than 50 birds, but the new scheme is part of the government's response to bird flu.
The new rules not only require poultry owners to register their birds, but to provide updated information every year. By registering their birds with APH, owners will ensure they receive important updates, such as information on any local bird flu outbreaks and information on biosecurity rules.
The consultation proposal advances the recommendations of the 2018 Dame Glynis Stacy Review and lessons learned from the 2021/2 outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 and previous HPAI outbreaks.
"A complete picture of bird populations and locations"
The chief veterinary officers of England, Scotland and Wales said in a joint statement: "These proposals will allow us to obtain a complete picture of the numbers and locations of domesticated birds across the UK and make it easier to track and manage avian influenza. Spread.
"This information will also aid in future risk assessments and maintains our commitment to continuously expand our extensive avian influenza research portfolio."
UK Poultry Council chief executive Richard Griffiths agreed with the consultation, saying it would help ensure the UK Poultry Register supports government and industry efforts to mitigate the ongoing impact of bird flu.
Surveillance and control of disease spread
"Registering your poultry is an effective way to monitor and control the spread of the disease and protect the nation's flock. We again urge all poultry keepers to remain vigilant and watch their birds for signs of avian influenza."
Bird keepers are required to provide information including their contact details, the location where the birds are kept and details of the birds (eg breed, quantity and purpose).
The 12-week England-wide consultation runs until 31 May.
Extracted from: https://www.poultryworld.net/the-industrymarkets/market-trends-analysis-the-industrymarkets-2/uk-consultation-launched-on-new-registration-rules-for-all-bird- keepers/