14 November 2024
The Government of Jersey’s Animal Health and Welfare Team urges all poultry
keepers to review biosecurity measures for the birds in their care.
Jersey has remained free from Avian Influenza, Bird Flu, since 22 August 2023, but
the risk remains due to the ongoing bird migration season.
The Chief Veterinary Officer recommends all poultry keepers, from small backyard
flocks to large commercial operations, to review biosecurity practices and register
their birds.
Registration can be completed online under “Keeping and moving livestock” or by
calling 01534 441600. Registering is crucial for quick communication in case of an
outbreak, and is legally required for those keeping 30 or more birds.
The Chief Veterinary Officer stated:
“Although Jersey is currently free from Avian Flu, the wild bird migration season is
in progress, bringing a constant risk. Surveillance has detected Avian Influenza
across Europe and recently in the UK. We need vigilance among poultry keepers,
who should monitor their birds closely for any signs of disease.
"Keepers are encouraged to review our biosecurity advice on our Avian Flu webpage
and to take preventive actions, such as feeding birds under cover and cleaning up
waste food to avoid attracting wild birds.
"If poultry keepers have health concerns about their birds, they should consult their
vet."
Members of the public who find dead wild waterfowl (swans, geese, ducks), gulls,
or birds of prey are asked to report them via the “Report dead wild birds” form on
our Avian Flu webpage or email rva@gov.je with location details and photos.
gov.je