* **Enhanced Biosecurity Measures:** The new regulations mandate stricter biosecurity protocols for poultry farms, including mandatory temperature checks for workers, regular disinfection of equipment and facilities, and restrictions on access to the farm. * **Enhanced Surveillance:** The government will increase surveillance efforts to detect early signs of disease outbreaks. This includes increased testing of birds, enhanced monitoring of wild bird populations, and improved data sharing between stakeholders.

The collected information will also help identify bird keepers in disease control zones, which, according to Defra, will facilitate more effective disease surveillance. Ele Brown, the UK’s deputy chief veterinary officer, emphasised the importance of the new measures in improving disease monitoring and awareness. She stated: “The registration requirements will support better collaboration between bird keepers and government, with keepers informed of measures to take to protect the health of their birds. “All poultry, whether a large commercial flock or a few backyard pets, are at risk of infectious diseases. This approach will improve our resilience to future pandemics.” Richard Griffiths, chief executive of the British Poultry Council, added that registration is a valuable tool, helping bird keepers and the government collaborate to track and combat avian influenza.

The UK government is committed to bird health and has implemented rigorous biosecurity measures and registration programs to protect birds from diseases. These measures are in place to ensure the continued well-being of birds and the poultry industry. The government actively communicates with birdkeepers to provide updates and guidance on bird health.