New Poultry Registration Rules: What You Need to Know
Effective from 1st October 2024
If you’re a bird or poultry keeper, take note! A new law requires all bird owners, whether you have chickens, ducks, or other captive birds, to register them with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA). Yes, this includes birds kept as pets, so if you’ve got a backyard coop or even just a single bird, you’ll need to comply.
Poultry Registration: Are There Any Exceptions?
Good news for those with indoor pet birds like budgies, parrots, cockatiels, and finches. These popular species (psittaciformes and passeriformes) are exempt from poultry registration if they’re kept indoors without access to the outdoors. But if they do have access to fresh air at any point, even briefly, you’ll need to register them. You can still take them to the vet without registration as long as they remain indoors otherwise.
How to Register Your Poultry
Fewer than 50 birds: The process is simple and quick if you’re keeping under 50 birds. You don’t need a Holding (CPH) Number, and you can easily register online via the GOV.UK website. More than 50 birds: If you’ve got a larger flock (50+ birds), you should already be registered. If not, you’ll need to obtain a Holding Number and complete your registration through the same GOV.UK portal.
Poultry Registration: Why Is This Important?
This new rule is all about improving bird health and disease control in the UK. By registering, you’re helping authorities monitor and manage potential outbreaks like bird flu, protecting not just your flock but the wider community.
Stay Informed, Stay Compliant
It’s always best to stay up-to-date with the latest regulations to keep your birds safe and your setup legal. If you’re unsure whether your birds qualify, or if you need more info on how to register, head to the GOV.UK website for detailed guidance.
This new law makes it easier for everyone in the poultry community to protect their birds and contribute to the wider welfare of bird health across the country!
