Bird flu (avian influenza) is a highly contagious disease affecting many species of birds. There are two types of the virus, highly pathogenic avian influenza and low pathogenic avian influenza, categorized by the disease's ability to spread.
Signs of avian influenza in birds:
- swelling of the head (oedema)
- cyanosis (blue discolouration) to the neck and throat
- dullness
- loss of appetite
- respiratory problems
- diarrhoea
- drop in egg production
Birds can be affected with low pathogenic avian influenza and not show any signs.
By law, if you or your vet suspects that kept birds are showing any signs of disease it must be immediately reported to APHA by calling 03000 200 301.
The risk to public health from the virus is very low. It is important however that people don't pick up sick or dead birds. If you find dead swans, geese, ducks or other wild birds such as gulls and birds of prey, you should report them to the Defra Helpline on 03459 335577.
Compulsory registration of poultry and captive birds
If you keep any poultry or other captive birds, even those kept as pets and regardless of the size of your flock, you must register with the Animal and Plant Health Agency. This includes backyard flocks, birds of prey and pigeons. You are breaking the law if you do not register.
If you became a bird keeper before 1 October 2024, you must register immediately. For those becoming a bird keeper after this date, you must register within one month of keeping birds on your premises.
How to register
- register as a keeper of 49 birds or less on the GOV.UK website
- register as a keeper of 50 birds or more on the GOV.UK website
Exemptions
You do not need to register psittaciformes or passeriformes, such as budgies, parrots, cockatiels and finches if they are:
- fully housed in your home or another indoor structure; and
- have no access to the open air
You do not need to register an exempt bird to visit a vets practice. If your birds are taken outdoors at any time however, for example to be exercised, trained, or taken to bird gatherings or shows, then they must be registered.
Further information
Further information on how to spot and report suspected cases of avian flu is available by visiting the Defra website or by calling the Defra Helpline on tel: 08459 335577.