Warning issued to bird keepers following outbreak of 'highly pathogenic' avian influenza
Last updated 19th Dec 2025
A 3km protection zone has been put in place around a poultry farm in the Scottish Borders following an outbreak of bird flu.
Lockdown measures were introduced in some parts of the country at the end of October to control the spread of the virus.
But the Scottish Government has confirmed "highly pathogenic avian influenza" has been found at Whim Poultry Farm, near West Linton.
The protection zone means all poultry and captive birds must be housed, and a 10km surveillance zone has also been enforced.
Anyone keeping birds within the zones must inspect their flock and report any signs of disease.
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A statement issued by Scottish Borders Council says: "If you keep poultry (chickens, turkeys, ducks, geese etc) or captive birds (pigeons, birds of prey etc) in the blue 3km or black 10km control zone shown on the maps, please update your details or register on the Scottish Kept Bird Register immediately. This is a legal requirement.
"To do this, please visit Kept Bird Register online or phone 01466 405101. You must complete this process by Tuesday, December 30th.
"If you have any concerns about the health of your birds and think they could have bird flu, please contact the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) on 03000 600 704."
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