Authorities Allow Poultry to Roam Freely in England and Wales After Months of Confinement

Poultry and captive birds in England and Wales will be allowed outdoors once more from Thursday, 9 April.

This marks the end of mandatory housing rules that were put in place to curb the spread of avian influenza.

Why the Change Happened

The rules requiring birds to be kept indoors were introduced on 6 November last year.

Authorities acted to protect flocks after highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) cases were detected across the country.

According to the latest assessments, supported by epidemiological and scientific data, the threat level in wild and domestic birds has now decreased, making it safer to allow birds outside.

What Bird Keepers Need to Know

Although the housing mandate has been lifted, it isn’t a free pass.

The Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) measures, which cover biosecurity practices, remain in effect.

Bird owners must continue to disinfect footwear, clothing, equipment, and vehicles to prevent any lingering infection from spreading.

Birds in Protection Zones or Captive Bird Monitoring Zones, areas with recent HPAI outbreaks, will still be subject to housing or controlled measures.

Additionally, public gatherings of birds, such as fairs and markets, remain regulated under licensing requirements.

Preparing Outdoor Spaces Safely

Authorities urge bird keepers to use the days before 9 April to prepare outdoor areas.

Steps include cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, fencing off ponds or standing water, removing grazing livestock, and using deterrents to keep wild birds away.

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Because birds have been confined for months, experts recommend a gradual release to avoid stress and welfare problems.

Slowly acclimating birds to the outdoors helps them adjust physically and mentally.

Guidance documents for safely letting birds outside are available from local veterinary authorities.

Officials’ Advice on Vigilance

Jorge Martin-Almagro, Deputy UK Chief Veterinary Officer, emphasised that while the threat has reduced, the virus has not disappeared.

He stressed that “it is essential that bird keepers remain vigilant and implement rigorous and strict biosecurity.”

Richard Irvine, Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales, echoed this sentiment, noting that “scrupulous hygiene and biosecurity are still critical to protect your birds.”

Both officials advise reporting any suspected cases immediately to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).

Impact and Consequences

Lifting the housing mandate provides relief to thousands of bird owners and improves animal welfare, as birds can return to natural behaviours outdoors.

However, the virus can persist in the environment, and outbreaks could still occur if biosecurity is neglected.

The continued enforcement of AIPZ measures highlights the ongoing risk and the need for caution.

What’s Next?

Authorities will continue monitoring HPAI risk levels in both wild and domestic birds.

Any future uptick in cases could prompt temporary reintroduction of housing measures or targeted control zones.

Bird keepers should stay informed via official channels and ensure they register all captive birds as legally required.

Summary

After months of confinement, poultry and captive birds in England and Wales can finally access outdoor ranges.

The move reflects a reduced risk from avian influenza but underscores the continued importance of strict biosecurity.

Protection Zones remain in place where outbreaks occurred, and bird gatherings are still regulated.

Proper preparation and gradual acclimatisation of birds are key to a smooth transition.

Bulleted Takeaways

• Mandatory housing for poultry and captive birds lifts from 9 April 2026 in England and Wales.
• Avian Influenza Prevention Zone biosecurity measures remain in force.
• Protection Zones and Captive Bird Monitoring Zones maintain restrictions.
• Bird gatherings like fairs or markets still require licensing.
• Bird keepers must prepare outdoor areas, disinfect surfaces, and gradually acclimatise birds.
• Vigilance and immediate reporting of suspected disease cases remain essential.
• Public registration of poultry and captive birds is legally required.