All bird keepers in England and Wales, even those with just one bird, now have only two weeks remaining to sign up for the government’s new compulsory register.

This requirement, effective from October 1, aims to better protect the poultry sector from future outbreaks of avian influenza and other diseases.

By that date, all bird keepers in England and Wales, regardless of flock size, must register with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).

As part of this mandatory initiative, farmers and keepers will receive guidance on the steps needed to safeguard bird health and prevent the spread of disease.

The rules apply to owners of backyard flocks, birds of prey, and pigeon enthusiasts but exclude caged pet birds kept entirely indoors, such as parrots, canaries, and budgies.

The collected information will also help identify bird keepers in disease control zones, which, according to Defra, will facilitate more effective disease surveillance.

Ele Brown, the UK's deputy chief veterinary officer, emphasised the importance of the new measures in improving disease monitoring and awareness.

She stated: “The registration requirements will support better collaboration between bird keepers and government, with keepers informed of measures to take to protect the health of their birds.

"All poultry, whether a large commercial flock or a few backyard pets, are at risk of infectious diseases. This approach will improve our resilience to future pandemics.”

Richard Griffiths, chief executive of the British Poultry Council, added that registration is a valuable tool, helping bird keepers and the government collaborate to track and combat avian influenza.

He said: “Alongside stringent biosecurity, registration means all birdkeepers should receive important updates and timely communication, amplifying efforts to safeguard bird health as we move into the colder months."

The UK declared itself free from highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) as of March 29, 2024, and there are currently no outbreaks of HPAI in poultry or other captive birds in the country.