Starting next month, all bird keepers in Wales and England will be legally required to register with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).

Previously, only those with 50 or more birds were obligated to register, but the new rules now apply to all keepers of poultry and other captive birds, regardless of flock size.

Over 2,000 keepers of small flocks in Wales have already registered ahead of the 1 October deadline. Registering ensures bird keepers receive important updates and guidance in the event of a disease outbreak, such as bird flu, in their area. This step is crucial in preventing the spread of disease and protecting all kept birds, including smaller backyard flocks.

"Vital for Disease Management"

Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies, emphasized the importance of this new requirement. "This will allow us to effectively communicate with bird keepers, which is vital in managing disease outbreaks like bird flu. We urge all keepers in Wales to register their birds before 1 October."

Richard Irvine, Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales, added that the new registration will enhance disease prevention efforts. "The APHA will be able to contact bird keepers directly if there’s an outbreak, providing critical information on actions needed to protect their flocks and prevent further spread. Maintaining good hygiene and biosecurity remains essential."

Bird keepers will be required to review and update their registration annually. Some indoor pet birds that never go outside are exempt from the requirement, but all other types of captive birds and poultry flocks must be registered by law starting 1 October. Photo by Thomas Kriese, Wikimedia commons.