Many diseases, such as Avian influenza, Newcastle disease, salmonella and campylobacter, are spread by direct bird-to-bird contact through secretions and faeces, and indirectly through contaminated feed, water, equipment and boots.
To protect your birds from disease, you should:
- make sure your premises are tidy and clean. Spilled feed, litter and standing water attract wild birds and vermin
- buy feed from a mill or supplier that operates in accordance with Defra and Agricultural Industries Confederation Codes of Practice
- supply clean, fresh drinking water
- be vigilant when purchasing new stock. Use reputable sources
- isolate new birds and birds you have taken off your premises (eg to a show)
Advice for non-commercial keepers of poultry and waterfowl
Avian influenza (bird flu)
If there is an outbreak of bird flu, there are additional steps that you should take to protect your birds.
Feed and water your birds indoors to avoid contamination by wild birds and other animals, and keep your birds separate from wild birds, waterfowl, pets and other animals.
Keep visitors and their vehicles away from your birds as far as possible. If they must have access, make sure vehicles and equipment are clean. Also, make sure your clothes, footwear and hands are clean, before and after contact with birds. Any essential visitors should do the same.
Avoid sharing equipment. If you do have to share, make sure it is cleansed and disinfected before and after use.
Guidance for biosecurity and preventing disease in Jersey
Approved disinfectants
A list of approved disinfectants is provided by DEFRA. Contact local suppliers to source one of these products.
Approved disinfectant list on DEFRA website
What should I do if I think my birds are diseased?
If you suspect disease, act quickly and consult your vet. Increased mortality, falling egg production and respiratory distress may be early signs of a disease problem.
Avian influenza, Newcastle disease and Pigeon paramyxovirus 1 are notifiable diseases and must be reported to the Department of the Environment.
Protecting your birds from diseases leaflet