The Government has ordered mandatory housing measures for poultry and other captive birds across England following an increase in confirmed cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (bird flu). Defra announced on 11 November 2026 that the housing requirement will begin at 00:01 on Friday 13 November. A separate England-wide Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) has been in force since 9am on 11 November.
Who must house their birds?
The housing order applies to keepers of 50 or more poultry or captive birds, and to anyone selling or giving away eggs, poultry products or live birds regardless of flock size. Specific exemptions apply, including for certain zoo birds. Small backyard flocks below the threshold that do not supply eggs or birds are not automatically subject to the nationwide housing requirement, although local disease-control rules may impose additional restrictions.
Biosecurity rules apply to all bird keepers
The England-wide AIPZ applies to everyone keeping birds, including pet birds, small backyard flocks and commercial farms. Keepers must follow enhanced biosecurity measures, including cleaning and disinfecting clothing, footwear and equipment; reducing unnecessary movement around birds; controlling vermin; protecting feed and water from wild birds; and preventing access to ponds and watercourses. Applicable record-keeping and disease-monitoring requirements must also be followed.
Confirmed outbreaks prompt action
Defra and the Animal and Plant Health Agency confirmed H5N1 in commercial poultry near Dersingham, Norfolk, on 9 November, following cases near Garstang, Lancashire, and Pocklington, East Riding of Yorkshire, on 7 November. A case near Brigg, North Lincolnshire, was confirmed on 4 November. Protection and surveillance zones have been established around affected premises. Official records showed five confirmed H5N1 cases in England in the 2026–27 outbreak season as of 9 November.
Chief Veterinary Officer urges vigilance
UK Chief Veterinary Officer Christine Middlemiss urged keepers to comply with the housing measures, maintain robust biosecurity and report suspected disease immediately. Bird flu is a notifiable disease. In England, suspected infection in poultry or captive birds should be reported to the Animal and Plant Health Agency on 03000 200 301.
Will Christmas turkey supplies be affected?
Defra says the UK produces approximately eight million turkeys each year and does not currently anticipate an overall impact on the availability of Christmas turkeys or other seasonal poultry. That assessment does not rule out disruption to individual producers affected by outbreaks.
What is the risk to people?
The UK Health Security Agency assesses the current risk to human health as very low. The Food Standards Agency says properly cooked poultry, eggs and poultry products are safe to eat. People should avoid handling sick or dead wild birds and follow official reporting advice.
What happens next?
The housing order starts at 00:01 on 13 November 2026, while the nationwide AIPZ is already in force. Bird keepers should check the official guidance and any additional restrictions affecting their premises. The Government has not announced an end date for the measures.