Avian flu detected in North Northants

28 October 2025

North Northamptonshire Council are warning bird keepers and members of the public to be aware after Avian (or bird) flu was detected in the wild bird population locally.

The birds were tested as part of the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) Wild Surveillance programme, which has been set up to detect the spread of Avian Influenzas in the UK.

If a dead or sick bird is found, it should not be touched or picked up - instead, call the Defra helpline on 03459 33 55 77 or report it online via the Government website.

All bird keepers (whether you have pet birds, commercial flocks or just a few birds in a backyard flock) must always keep a close watch on them for signs of disease and maintain good biosecurity.

Anyone who suspects any type of bird flu in poultry or captive birds must report it immediately by calling the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301.

For all the latest information in relation to the spread of Avian Flu, including the housing measures which have been brought in across the country and also for information on how you can help to protect your birds please visit central Government’s Avian flu information.

Residents are advised to not touch and keep dogs away from dead or unwell birds.

Registering birds

People are being reminded to register poultry, even if only kept as pets, so Defra can contact them during an outbreak.

Poultry includes chickens, ducks, turkeys, geese, pigeon, partridge, quail, guinea fowl and pheasants.

It is now a requirement for all bird keepers who keep their poultry outdoors - regardless of the size of their flock - to officially register their birds.

The rules cover owners of background flocks, birds of prey and pigeon fanciers, but do not affect caged pet birds (excluding any poultry species) kept inside a domestic dwelling - like a parrot, canary or budgie.

Registering their birds will mean that keepers will receive important updates relevant to them, including details of local avian disease outbreaks, any associated restrictions and information on how to help protect their flocks. This will help manage future, potential disease outbreaks (including bird flu) and help to limit spread.

Keepers will also be able to keep up to date with the latest national and regional guidance.