Important Update: New Regulations for Poultry Keepers Coming This Autumn!

Hey there, feathered friends and backyard enthusiasts! We’ve got some important news to cluck about regarding new regulations for poultry keepers, set to hatch this autumn.

Starting this October, all poultry keepers, regardless of the size of their flock, will be required to register their feathered friends on the national register. Yes, you heard that right—even if you’re just raising a handful of birds in your backyard coop, you’ll need to log their details.

Previously, only those with 50 birds or more had to submit their information. However, in light of recent avian influenza outbreaks, authorities are tightening the reins to bolster disease control measures across Great Britain.

But fear not, fellow chicken aficionados! Registering your birds comes with its perks. By signing up, you’ll stay in the loop with important updates tailored to your flock, including local disease outbreaks and biosecurity guidelines to safeguard your feathered companions.

Owners of Chicken Hotels don’t have to worry about doing anything extra. We have had recent communication with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) which told us  

“Once someone is registered with us (APHA) they would not need to do anything when new chickens come to stay and the number of birds does not go over 50.   There will be a requirement, on an annual basis, of keeping us informed but the way that this will be implemented has not been finalised as of yet.”

Richard Griffiths, Chief Executive of the British Poultry Council, emphasises the importance of timely communication in tracking and controlling the spread of avian influenza. Alongside stringent biosecurity measures, registration serves as another vital tool in our arsenal to protect bird health.

So, what’s the lowdown on registration? You’ll need to provide some basic information, such as your contact details, the location of your coop, and specifics about your birds—think species, numbers, and their purpose. 

For our friends in England and Wales, mark your calendars: registration ahead of the legal deadline on October 1st, 2024, is encouraged. Meanwhile, our Scottish pals will kickstart registration from September 1st, 2024, coinciding with the introduction of the new Scottish Kept Bird Register. And here’s the scoop: these requirements will be enshrined in legislation soon, with keepers legally obligated to update their information annually. You can register your birds before the deadline on 1st October 2024 in case you might miss it.

These changes stem from the UK’s recent battle with avian influenza, marking the worst outbreak in history. With over 360 reported cases across Great Britain since late October 2021, including numerous instances in backyard flocks, it’s clear that proactive measures are crucial to protect our beloved birds.

So, fellow poultry pals, let’s band together and ensure the safety and well-being of our feathered companions. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and let’s keep those coops happy, healthy, and clucking away!