Avian Flu restrictions lifted in Ringstead area
Trading Standards26 May 2023
A 3km Captive bird (monitoring) controlled zone has been lifted in the Ringstead area, after being introduced earlier in May following a case of bird flu in a captive flock.
Although the control zone has been lifted and national mandatory housing measures were lifted in April 2023, an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone remains in place across England, requiring bird keepers to follow rules on biosecurity.
It is great news that the control zone has been lifted, but we are asking bird keepers to still be cautious and follow the current national rules.Cllr David Brackenbury, North Northamptonshire Council’s Executive Member for Growth and Regeneration (which covers Trading Standards)
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank residents within the 3km zone who spoke to and helped our staff - I am sure the fantastic response from local people has led to the zone being lifted so quickly.
The Avian Influenza Prevention Zone Declaration places requirements on all bird keepers (whether they have commercial flocks or just a few birds in the back garden). Keepers must take appropriate and accurate steps to avoid the transfer of the virus this includes keeping feed, bedding and water enclosed, regular cleaning and disinfecting and deterring wild birds. There are also enhanced measures for those who keep 500 or more birds.
The lifting of control zone in the Ringstead area shows that the situation with bird flu is constantly changing and bird keepers should be aware, keeping an eye out for changes in rules and guidelines to help prevent further cases in the area.Cllr Jason Smithers, Leader of the Council
More details about the lifting of mandatory housing measures
Government information Avian Influenza Prevention Zone
Government advice on how to prevent bird flu
How to report dead wild birds