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AIPZ housing measures to be lifted
Bird keepers are warned that birds may take time to reacclimatise.
Mandatory housing will not be enforced from 15 May 2025.

The chief veterinary officer (CVO) has confirmed that mandatory housing measures are to be lifted in Avian Influenza Prevention Zones (AIPZs) in the UK.

From Thursday, 15 May 2025, poultry and captive birds will no longer need to be housed and can be kept outside.

Defra advises that bird keepers prepare ranges and outside areas before releasing their birds, as they may still be contaminated. This includes disinfecting hard surfaces, fencing off ponds and reintroducing wild bird deterrents.

Bird keepers are warned that birds may take time to reacclimatise, and so should be gradually released over a period of days.

The government maintains that strict biosecurity is the best way to prevent the spread of avian influenza. It says that birdkeepers in AIPZ are still legally required to follow the highest biosecurity measures, such as thorough disinfecting clothes and equipment.

The housing measures will remain in place for bird keepers in a Protection Zone or a Captive Bird Monitoring (Controlled) Zone, where there may have been recent outbreaks of avian influenza. Bird gatherings also remain banned.

Defra says that the decision was made as a result of a risk assessment, supported by scientific evidence, which found that the risk of avian influenza levels in wild birds and poultry had reduced.

Christine Middlemiss, UK CVO, said: "Following a sustained period of reduced risk from avian influenza, we are now able to lift the mandatory housing measures in effect in various counties, which is testament to the hard work and vigilance of bird keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.
 
“While the lifting of mandatory housing measures will be welcomed by bird keepers, it is imperative that keepers continue to practice stringent biosecurity and that any suspicions of disease are reported to the Animal and Plant Health agency immediately."

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.