In response to the increased number of cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza in poultry in new areas of the country and the continued heightened risk levels in poultry and kept birds, the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) is being extended to mitigate the risk of further outbreaks of the disease.

This means that from 00:01 on Monday 27 January 2025 the AIPZ mandating enhanced biosecurity and housing for kept birds currently in force across East Riding of Yorkshire, City of Kingston Upon Hull, Lincolnshire, Norfolk, Suffolk will be extended to also include the unitary authorities of Shropshire, York and North Yorkshire.

In addition, an AIPZ mandating enhanced biosecurity but without mandatory housing will come into force from noon on Saturday 25 January 2025 across all other areas of England. A similar zone will also apply in Scotland.

The AIPZ measures apply to all bird keepers whether they have pet birds, commercial flocks or just a few birds in a backyard flock and are essential to protecting flocks from avian influenza.

Bird keepers are advised to consult the interactive map to check if they are impacted and should then read the AIPZ declaration schedule relevant to their area.

The AIPZs will be in place until further notice and will be kept under regular review as part of the government’s work to monitor and manage the risks of avian influenza.