Latest Bird flu (avian influenza) in England Update

Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) and Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) have shared the latest update on bird flu (avian influenza) in England.

Key Updates

• From 15 May 2025, the housing measures for birds in England will be lifted due to a lower risk of bird flu.

• However, the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ), which requires strict biosecurity, will stay in place across England, Scotland, and Wales.
• Bird gatherings are still banned.

What Bird Keepers Should Do:

Poultry keepers who intend to allow their birds outside are advised to use the upcoming days to prepare their outside areas for the safe release of their birds:

• Clean and disinfect hard surfaces.
• Restrict access to ponds or standing water.
• Reintroduce wild birds detterents.

As birds may have been housed for several months, there will be a 7 day transition period from 00:01 on 15 May 2025 until 00:01 on 22 May 2025 during which, where necessary, previously housed birds must be released gradually to minimise welfare issues.

Keepers with any welfare concerns about their birds should speak to their vet. Further information is available in the press release on GOV.UK.

Important

If you fall within a Protection Zone or Captive Bird (Monitoring) Controlled Zone, you are still required to house your birds.

Please check the disease control zones on the Government's avian influenza interactive map to see what restrictions are in place and view biosecurity guidance.

Definitive requirements are set out in the published declarations for each disease control zone currently in force. More information is available on GOV.UK.