David George, regional communications adviser, south west branch, National Farmers Union, writes:

Kingsbridge NFU branch chairman David Camp is ­calling on everyone who keeps poultry to make sure their birds are being kept indoors, no ­matter how many of them they may have, to try to guard against the risk of an outbreak of avian influenza.

‘Even if you only have a few hens, ducks or geese, it’s ­essential that you take every opportunity to reduce the risk of your flock coming into ­contact with wild birds,’ said Mr Camp. ‘While there’s no risk to human health, and eggs and poultry meat are perfectly safe to eat, this disease is very ­serious for birds. We all have an equally important part to play in reducing the risk of avian influenza for backyard or commercial flocks.’

The current protection zone has been extended until February 28, and all keepers of poultry and other captive birds are now required by law to house them – ie keep them under cover – or otherwise keep them separate from wild birds.

Flock registration is compulsory for more than 50 birds, but even if you don’t have this many, it is well worth registering at http://bit.ly/flock_reg.