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Birdkeepers in St. Martin and the surrounding area are required to keep their birds cooped up after two chickens suddenly died this week.
After testing confirmed avian influenza, three remaining chickens in the same flock were humanely culled today.
A 3km radius 'protection zone' has been introduced around the Archirondel area to stop the spread of Avian Influenza or 'bird flu'.
By law, all domestic birds in the area must be kept inside enclosures with impermeable roofs and sides.
The Minister for the Environment, Deputy Jonathan Renouf has also declared a surveillance zone across the remainder of the island, highly recommending that birds are housed and that additional biosecurity measures are taken.
The new measures mark the first time such restrictions have been in place in Jersey since October 2022.
Pictured: Minister for the Environment, Deputy Jonathan Renouf has also declared a surveillance zone across the remainder of the island.
Deputy Renouf said: “Ongoing surveillance testing of wild birds in Jersey had not detected avian influenza this year, with the last positive being the flock of graylag geese in St Ouen back in November. It is, therefore, a surprise to hear the sudden news that the virus has reappeared here this summer.
“Bird flu spreads when infected wild birds mix with domestic poultry, which can lead to mass mortalities in our flocks. That’s why we need all keepers in the protection zone to house their birds, and we’re recommending all keepers across the island do the same too as a precautionary and preventative measure.
“I urge keepers to take action to help reduce the chances of a larger outbreak. Good biosecurity measures are, as always, key to preventing the spread of viruses, and we’d encourage owners to use disinfectant baths to clean their footwear at the entrance to units. Domestic bird food, water, and bedding should be kept away from wild birds.”
The Government of Jersey’s Public Health team have confirmed that the risk to the general public is considered to be very low.
Those who come across wild birds that have died suddenly and without an obvious explanation can report them to the Natural Environment team via an online form.
Birdkeepers must immediately report any suspicious symptoms of avian influenza in their own flocks to Natural Environment on 01534 441600.
The full rules and restrictions are available on online.
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