Migratory wildfowl, notably wild ducks, are natural
carriers of the viruses, but are unlikely to actually develop an
infection. The risk is that they pass it on to our domestic birds,
who are much more vulnerable to the virus.
The H5N1 strain of bird flu has been spreading across
the world and getting nearer to the UK. It was confirmed in France
on a poultry farm in late February 2006 and arrived in the UK in
early April 2006 in Fife and other strains have since been confirmed
in the UK.
The following important information about
Avian Influenza / Bird Flu can also be found in our pest control
FAQS section and in the bird control section of our online shop.
Specific information about our full range of bird
control products can be found below this information.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
(DEFRA) are the government department most active in helping to
prevent the spread of Avian Influenza or "Bird ‘Flu"
in the UK. DIY PCS.co.uk are working closely with our customers
to advise and supply suitable preventative equipment as recommended
by DEFRA. Should you wish to speak to one of our experts regarding
the latest advice from DEFRA please do not hesitate to contact us
on 01772 310200.
Avian Influenza or “Bird ‘Flu” has arrived in
the UK. As part of their preparations for this arrival the government,
through DEFRA, issued a booklet, “Preparing for Avian Influenza
– Separating flocks from wild birds” (available as a
download from the website www.defra.gov.uk). This booklet suggests
that in the event of the disease being found in the UK the keepers
of bird flocks will be REQUIRED BY LAW to keep them indoors or otherwise
isolate them from wild birds. If you cannot keep your birds indoors
then you will have to provide other means of isolating them from
the wild bird population and possible infection. You will need to
minimise the chance of wild birds landing close to your birds, mingling
with them and contaminating their water and feed supplies. Highly
pathogenic bird flu can also be spread via the droppings from infected
wild birds and so you will need to ensure that your flock is kept
clear of these droppings.
Our range of bird netting provides a simple method of creating
physical barriers between your flock and possibly infected wild
birds, DEFRA recommend a mesh size of no more than 25mm. Once the
bird netting is in place it can be complemented by the strategic
placing of pigeon spikes in roosting spots around your property
to reduce the risk from infected droppings. |
