Avian Influenza Prevention Zone introduced across Northern Ireland

An Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) will come into effect across Northern Ireland from 00:01 on Saturday 1 November 2025, Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir has announced.

The new measures, which place a legal requirement on all bird keepers to follow strict biosecurity rules, are being introduced to help prevent the spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) during the winter migration season.

Whether keeping pet birds, a small backyard flock, or a large commercial operation, all bird keepers in Northern Ireland must comply with the biosecurity measures outlined under the AIPZ.

Minister Muir: “Act now to protect our birds and industry”

Confirming the decision, Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir said:

“With the onset of winter migration, the risk of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) introduction via wild birds is heightened. An incursion of HPAI can cause devastating impacts for those affected and our wider industry.

“I am therefore asking all bird keepers to now take the appropriate action to protect your birds, the Northern Ireland flock and wider agri-food industry.”

Minister Muir added that the coordinated approach between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland was a crucial step in tackling the disease:

“The biosecurity measures required under the AIPZ are vital tools in our fight against this disease and I am pleased that we have been able to co-ordinate with the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine in the Republic of Ireland where mandatory biosecurity measures for all poultry and captive birds will be introduced at the same time as the introduction of the AIPZ across Northern Ireland.”

Chief Veterinary Officer urges vigilance

Chief Veterinary Officer for Northern Ireland, Brian Dooher, emphasised the importance of immediate action from all bird keepers.

“The measures in the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone include stringent, mandatory biosecurity measures to help prevent the spread of the disease from wild birds or another source to poultry; a requirement that poultry or other captive birds are provided with food and water to which wild birds have no access, and mandatory rules on cleansing and disinfection.”

He confirmed that while there is currently no requirement to house birds or prohibit bird gatherings, this position will be kept “under constant review.”

“I would encourage all flock keepers, even if you keep just one bird, to review and reinforce your biosecurity in order to prevent an incursion of the disease into our poultry flock. Avian Influenza can have a significant and devastating impact on our poultry industry, international trade and the wider economy, it is imperative that we do not become complacent.”

Registration and updates

Bird keepers are urged to register their flocks — regardless of size — to ensure they receive direct updates from DAERA. Registration can be completed online via the DAERA website or by contacting a local DAERA Direct office.

Those wishing to receive text alerts can opt in by texting ‘BIRDS OPT IN’ to 07860 098 672.

Public health and food safety

According to the Public Health Agency, avian influenza remains primarily a disease of birds and poses a very low risk to human health. The Food Standards Agency has also confirmed that properly cooked poultry, eggs and related products are safe to eat.

Reporting and resources

Members of the public are encouraged to report sightings of dead wild birds — including swans, geese, ducks, gulls, or birds of prey — using the DAERA Dead Wild Bird Online Reporting Tool.

Further information, including full details of the AIPZ declaration, biosecurity guidance, and a self-assessment checklist, can be found on the DAERA website.