Avian Flu (Bird Flu) Latest

14th May 2025:  DEFRA have announced that some Bird Flu restrictions are being lifted from 00.01 15th May. Strict Biosecurity measures remain in place - follow this link to GOV.UK website for full details.

APHA announced that mandatory biosecurity measures will come into place across the whole of England, Scotland & Wales from Sat 25th January. To clarify - this is not a housing order, it is a biosecurity order (disinfectant footbaths, restrict contact with wild birds, cover food and water utensils, etc). Visit our Hints & Tips page.

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What are the Bird flu symptoms in Chickens?

Bird flu spreads quickly and can affect your chicken's health within hours. In severe cases, without warning, chickens can die within a day.

These are some of the symptoms to look out for: Swelling of the comb and wattles often with a purple tinge; Diarrhoea; Soft-shelled or misshapen eggs; Coughing, sneezing, and nasal discharge; Disorientation; Swelling of the head and eyelids; Lack of energy and appetite. It can be any one of these symptoms or a combination of them. However, do remember that these symptoms also indicate other issues that are not Bird flu.

More information about Avian Influenza and what it means can be found in our Information Centre, and link here to our latest Video on the 2025 Bird Flu and what you need to do.