Bird keepers across North Yorkshire are being urged to help prevent the spread of avian influenza after three cases were confirmed in the county.
The cases, at sites in Hackforth, near Bedale, Tholthorpe, near Easingwold, and Knayton, near Thirsk, have been found since the start of October.
The outbreaks have led to culls and strict biosecurity controls at affected sites, with wider warnings issued to all poultry and captive bird owners in the region.
Councillor Richard Foster, North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for managing our environment, said: "Control zones are now in place around the affected sites, and it’s vital that bird keepers understand and follow the requirements within these areas.
"Compliance is essential to protect both commercial and backyard flocks and to support the wider disease control effort.
"These are in place to inform bird keepers of their responsibilities.
"I urge all keepers to stay alert for signs of disease and to maintain the highest standards of biosecurity to protect their birds and prevent further spread."
The virus, which spreads from wild birds to domestic flocks, typically becomes more prevalent during colder months due to migratory patterns.
This seasonal rise puts the county’s farming sector, and particularly its commercial operations, at increased risk.
In response, the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) is managing the infected sites, carrying out culling and deep cleaning.
North Yorkshire Council’s animal health officers are working with local communities to ensure compliance with the control zone regulations.
The council has also activated its Notifiable Disease Action Plan.
Residents will notice road signs and public information posters marking the bird flu control zones.
Within these zones, bird keepers must follow strict biosecurity measures, keep records of poultry and egg movements, refrain from organising or attending bird gatherings, and keep all birds housed.
Great Britain remains under an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ).
From November 6, mandatory housing applies across England for anyone keeping 50 or more birds, or any number of poultry kept for selling or distributing eggs, poultry products, or live birds.
Those keeping fewer than 50 birds, and whose birds or products are for personal use, are not required to house them, but must still follow biosecurity measures.
The risk to public health from avian influenza is considered very low.
Properly cooked poultry and eggs remain safe to eat, according to current guidance.
However, the public is advised not to touch or pick up sick or dead birds.
Dead wild waterfowl, such as swans, geese, or ducks, as well as gulls and birds of prey, can be reported to Defra on 03459 33 55 77 or online at www.gov.uk/guidance/report-dead-wild-birds.
Since October 2024, it has been a legal requirement to register all poultry and captive birds.
This helps the APHA contact keepers quickly during an outbreak.
Anyone who fails to register their birds is committing an offence.
Bird keepers are advised to contact their vet immediately if their birds become unwell.
Avian influenza spreads through direct contact or contaminated fluids and faeces.
Symptoms in poultry include a swollen head, blue discoloration of the neck and throat, loss of appetite, diarrhoea, respiratory distress, reduced egg production, and increased mortality.
Suspected cases must be reported to the APHA immediately on 03000 200 301.
Birds will only be culled if avian influenza is confirmed through laboratory testing, or if a veterinary risk assessment identifies a strong likelihood of significant links to an infected premises.
More information on the current restrictions and biosecurity requirements can be found at www.gov.uk/bird-flu.
Share