Poultry farmers urged to remain vigilant after DEFRA lifts housing order

By Rob Blair, Partner, and ARA specialist

The British Free Range Egg Producers Association (BFREPA) has called on all bird keepers to maintain vigilance and high biosecurity standards following Defra’s announcement that the avian influenza housing order will end.

Since November 7, 2022, free-range poultry has been housed indoors to protect them from the virus, affecting 175 premises this season and leading to the culling of over 1.3 million egg-laying hens and pullets.

DEFRA confirmed that the housing order for England and Wales was lifted on Tuesday April 18.

The ongoing risk of another avian influenza outbreak poses a risk to the ongoing livelihoods of poultry farmers who rely solely on poultry.

For many farmers looking to secure their future, many will be looking at some form of diversification to secure additional income streams.

Need help or advice on diversification issues? Call us today.