Staffordshire bird keepers urged to be vigilant following confirmed cases of bird flu in region
Staffordshire Council has urged vigilance following confirmed cases of avian influenza.
The Staffordshire County Council Trading Standards Animal Health team has issued new advice following a confirmed case of avian influenza (bird flu) in the region.
The warning comes after the animal health team confirmed reports of bird flu in the Betley area of Cheshire, with the group saying that wild birds migrating from mainland Europe during the winter period can help spread the disease.
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The group added that influenza can have a 'devastating impact' on both local bird populations and the poultry industry.
Anthony Screen, cabinet member for community safety and resilience at Staffordshire County Council, said: "Bird flu can have real implications for local wildlife and the poultry sector, so it’s important that we all do what we can to help reduce cases of it.
“There are strict rules in place for birdkeepers, whether people have a single bird or a larger commercial flock.
We would ask that people follow any local advice, remain alert for any signs of the disease and report suspected cases immediately.
"People should also ensure they are maintaining good biosecurity on their premises."
The council also offered advice for those who keep birds, saying that the risks of contracting the disease can be reduced by keeping the area where the birds live 'clean and tidy'.
The council's advice is as follows:
Keeping the area where birds live clean and tidy, controlling rats and mice and regularly cleansing and disinfecting any hard surfaces
Cleaning footwear before and after visits
Placing birds’ feed and water in fully enclosed areas that are protected from wild birds, and removing any spilt feed regularly
Putting fencing around outdoor areas where birds are allowed and limiting their access to ponds or areas visited by wild waterfowl
Where possible, avoid keeping ducks and geese with other poultry species.
The council added that as of October 2024, anyone who keeps birds must register them with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), with the law applying to all birdkeepers.
