Lincolnshire poultry farmers fear financial impact of bird flu restrictions

All bird keepers must now keep them indoors

Author: Andy MarshPublished 8th Nov 2022

Farmers across Lincolnshire have told us they have real fears about the financial impact of the new restrictions designed to curb the spread of bird flu

As of yesterday all birds and poultry must be kept inside.

We've already seen outbreaks in Lincolnshire with the latest one confirmed in Metheringham at the weekend.

But there are concerns about money and the full cost if the restrictions are in place in the longer term.

We spoke to James Porter, a farmer from Navenby near Lincoln.

He told us: "Backing those farmers who have to cover the "layer" birds indoors is crucial."

"After 1 6 weeks they can't be sold as free range - they have to be sold as barn."

"The Government are bringing in this scheme now of being able to freeze the birds immediately after being slaughtered which then kills any virus or bacteria inside that meat."

He has this advice:

"Just go to the shop and get a new pair of wellies, put it inside the pen and change your wellies when you go inside the pen."

"It'll just prevent that human content from outside bringing anything into your birds".