RSPCA issues advice for poultry keepers after bird flu cases
The RSPCA is calling on poultry keepers in Wales to follow biosecurity advice after two cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza were confirmed in Pembrokeshire and Wrexham— the first outbreaks in the country in two years.
Kate Parkes, poultry expert at the RSPCA, said: "It's rarer at this time of year to see outbreaks of avian influenza but sadly not uncommon – as we have now seen in west and north Wales."
Welsh Government has introduced 3km protection zones and 10km surveillance zones around the affected areas.
A mandatory housing order now requires all farmed and pet poultry within the zones to be kept indoors.
The RSPCA is also encouraging owners to keep their birds 'hentertained' with indoor enrichment.
Ms Parkes said: "Having nothing to do can lead to boredom, stress and contribute to problems such as feather pecking."
Perches, straw bales and puzzle feeders can keep poultry occupied.
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RSPCA issues advice for poultry keepers after bird flu cases
The RSPCA is calling on poultry keepers in Wales to follow biosecurity advice after two cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza were confirmed in Pembrokeshire and Wrexham— the first outbreaks in the country in two years. Kate Parkes, poultry expert at the RSPCA, said: "It's rarer at this time of year to see outbreaks of avian influenza but sadly not uncommon – as we have now seen in west and north Wales." Welsh Government has introduced 3km protection zones and 10km surveillance zones around the affected areas. A mandatory housing order now requires all farmed and pet poultry within the zones to be kept indoors. The RSPCA is also encouraging owners to keep their birds 'hentertained' with indoor enrichment. Ms Parkes said: "Having nothing to do can lead to boredom, stress and contribute to problems such as feather pecking." Perches, straw bales and puzzle feeders can keep poultry occupied.
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