The Welsh Government’s Chief Veterinary Officer has declared a 3km protection zone and a wider 10km surveillance zone around the affected premises. These zones are designed to stop the spread of the disease, which has been identified as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza.
Officers checking where birds are kept
Pembrokeshire County Council says its Public Protection officers will be visiting homes and businesses inside the 3km zone to find out where poultry or other captive birds are being kept. They will also be giving advice on the restrictions that now apply.
Signs are being put up on local roads to show where the zones begin and end. These will stay in place until restrictions are lifted.
The council says its staff are working alongside vets from the Animal and Plant Health Agency, who are leading the response.
Bird keepers urged to stay vigilant
Officials are urging anyone who keeps birds to be extra careful about biosecurity – the steps taken to stop disease spreading. This includes keeping housing, equipment, vehicles and clothing clean and making sure wild birds cannot contaminate feed or bedding.
Keepers are also reminded that from October 2024 it became a legal requirement to register all poultry and captive birds, no matter how small the flock. Registration means owners can receive direct updates about outbreaks and rules that affect them.
What to look out for
Bird keepers are asked to watch for signs of illness such as sudden deaths, breathing problems, or drops in food, water or egg production.
Anyone who suspects bird flu must report it immediately to the Animal and Plant Health Agency Wales on 0300 303 8268.
The council says the risk to the public is very low, and food safety agencies advise there is also a very low risk to consumers.
Public asked to report dead wild birds
Members of the public who don’t keep birds can still help. Dead wild waterfowl (such as swans, geese or ducks), gulls or birds of prey should be reported to the Defra helpline on 03459 33 55 77.
People are warned not to touch or pick up sick or dead birds. Sick or injured wild birds should instead be reported to the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999.
Dead birds found on private land remain the responsibility of the landowner.
