Mandatory housing orders covering some parts of England are set to be lifted on Thursday, 15th May, much to the delight of hen keepers in the UK.
The first case of bird flu was detected in commercial birds in England on 17th November 2024 and an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone was introduced on 25th January, requiring enhanced biosecurity.
Mandatory housing orders were also introduced in several high-risk areas of the UK meaning anyone keeping birds within those zones had to keep their birds undercover and separate from wild birds.
Thankfully the risk has now been deemed low enough to remove the housing orders across the UK from May 15th, so all our pet hens are free to enjoy the spring sunshine once again.
But, despite the risk having reduced, does this newfound freedom come with any additional prevention measures?
Avian Influenza Prevention Zone
While mandatory housing orders have been lifted, the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone remains in place meaning there are still enhanced biosecurity measures you must adhere to, to keep your birds safe.
This includes:
- Cleansing and disinfecting of equipment, footwear and vehicles to prevent the spread of the disease
- Storage of feed and water should be undercover to prevent access by wild birds
- Ensure your hens do not have contact with poultry or captive birds on neighbouring premises
- Vermin control is carried out where your hens live
- Hard areas are disinfected regularly
Another measure Defra recommends is putting some kind of wild bird deterrent in your garden. This could include visual deterrents such as mannequins or scarecrows, or something a little smaller in scale such as flags, streamers or windmills. The full requirements of the AIPZ can be found here.
The main thing to remember is to be vigilant. Keep a close eye on your hens and do your best to prevent them encountering wild birds.
Is it safe to let my hens out?
Defra has deemed the risk level to be low enough that captive birds are able to free range safely again, and we would encourage this if it’s what your birds are used to most of the time.
However, there is a seven-day transition period from 15th May during which, where necessary, housed birds should be released gradually to minimise welfare issues.
DEFRA also recommends using the following few days to prepare outside areas ahead of releasing their birds, such as cleaning and disinfecting hard standing areas, fencing off ponds and ensuring wild bird deterrents are in place.
As mentioned above, keep an eye on them as you know them best, and if you have any concerns about their health or wellbeing, please use our Hen Helpline or consult your vet if you need emergency treatment.
Other than that, enjoy the gentle chicken chatter that can resume across your garden in abundance once more!
