By Isle of Wight Observer
Bird keepers on the Island are being urged to enhance protective measures for their birds, due to a heightened risk of bird flu.
The Isle of Wight Council advises owners to prevent potential exposure to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).
Precautionary measures include keeping birds safe from wild and other captive birds, maintaining clean housing, and controlling pests. Owners are also encouraged to report any signs of illness, such as swollen heads, runny eyes, or lethargy, to the authorities.
James Potter, trading standards and community safety manager, said: “It is key that people are vigilant in monitoring the health of their kept birds, in reporting any suspicion of disease promptly, and in applying strict biosecurity. By implementing biosecurity measures keepers can reduce the likelihood of their kept birds being infected.”
Bird flu must be reported immediately to the authorities, by calling 03000 200 301, as it is a notifiable disease.
Bird owners must register as keepers within a month of acquiring captive birds, though exceptions are made for certain fully housed birds like budgies, finches and parrots within dwellings. However, outdoor birds, including for exercise or shows, must comply with registration laws.
These measures are pivotal in maintaining bird health and ensuring the safety of both domestic and wild populations across the Island. You can find out more at iw.observer/bird-flu.
Mal Butler