All flocks to be registered — but will shoots be targeted?

New laws to help protect poultry and other birds from avian influenza will be rolled out next month. From 1 October, all bird keepers, regardless of their flock size, must officially register with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA). 

Registering flocks aims to prevent and control avian disease outbreaks. The register is used to inform keepers about measures they need to take to protect the health of their birds and to prevent the spread of disease. The new rules will cover all shoots. 

David Pooler, chairman of the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation, said: “The serious avian influenza outbreak seen in the UK between 2021 and 2024 served to highlight just how important the poultry register is in terms of being able to keep poultry keepers and farmers up to date with the most recent developments when outbreaks occur.” 

However, some gamekeepers are worried about the privacy of the data on the poultry register. A headkeeper in Yorkshire said: “Given the attacks our way of life faces from society and government, I hope this information stays private, as in the wrong hands a register of shoots could encourage plenty of unwanted attention and guests.”