BIRD keepers are being reminded of the importance of biosecurity measures and are being encouraged to separate poultry from wild birds where possible in order to prevent the spread of bird flu.
Dr Caroline Terburgh, Jersey’s deputy chief veterinary officer, has written to bird keepers after bird flu was found in wild greylag geese in St Ouen’s Bay.
Around 15 dead geese have been reported from this flock over the past month.
Dr Terburgh said: ‘We know avian influenza is still circulating in our wild birds, and keepers must take precautions to prevent their flocks coming into contact with them. While we’re not making it compulsory to house birds in Jersey, we’re asking all keepers to do what they can to ensure as much separation as possible from wild birds.
‘Good biosecurity is also vital to help stop any outbreaks or spread, so please use foot dips at entrances and exits, and clear up any spilled feed.This disease kills and can wipe out large flocks overnight, and we know it’s here with us in Jersey.’
