Avian Influenza Prevention Zone Housing Measures to be lifted on 09 April 2026

Due to the reduction of the avian influenza risk to poultry and captive birds, plans have been announced to lift the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (APIZ) housing measures in England and Wales at 00:01 on Thursday 09 April 2026.

The Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) requiring mandatory biosecurity measures will remain in place across Great Britain.

Please make sure you follow the enhanced mandatory biosecurity guidance as the risk of avian influenza continues. More information is available on GOV.UK.

If you intend to allow your birds outside after the 09 April 2026, you must take action now to prepare outside areas, please check the info available on GOV.UK.

As birds have been housed for several months, it may be necessary for them to be acclimatised and their release carefully managed to minimise welfare issues. Keepers with any welfare concerns about their birds should speak to their vet.

If you fall within a Protection or Captive Bird (Monitoring) Controlled Zone, you are still required to house your birds. Please check the disease control zones on our avian influenza interactive map to see what restrictions are in place.