14 November 2022
Jersey’s Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer has written to local bird keepers to remind them of the
importance of good biosecurity measures, and to strongly encourage separating poultry from wild
birds whenever possible.
Caroline Terburgh’s letter follows confirmation that avian influenza (bird flu) was found in wild
greylag geese in St Ouen’s Bay. Around 15 dead geese have been reported from this flock over the
past month.
England recently brought in a national bird housing order (on 7 November 2022) following a rise in
cases. In Jersey, the housing of birds is not currently mandatory.
Dr Terburgh said: “We know avian influenza is still circulating in our wild birds, and keepers must
take precautions to prevent their flocks coming into contact with them. While we’re not making it
compulsory to house birds in Jersey, we’re asking all keepers to do what they can to ensure as
much separation as possible from wild birds. Good biosecurity is also vital to help stop any
outbreaks or spread, so please use foot dips at entrances and exits, and clear up any spilled feed.
This disease kills and can wipe out large flocks overnight, and we know it’s here with us in Jersey.”
Meanwhile, Islanders who come across wild birds that have died suddenly and without an obvious
explanation can be reported to the Natural Environment team via a new online form on
www.gov.je/birdflu.
The form allows the user to pinpoint exact locations of a sighting and give details of species and
numbers. However, bird keepers must immediately report any suspicious symptoms in their flocks
to Natural Environment on +44 (0) 1534 441600.
gov.je