Avian Flu UK

[HollyWoozle]

Absolutely over the moon to have been able to let our flock outside today! After nearly 4 months locked in they didn't know quite what to do with themselves. Pingu, our roo, wasn't sure how to guard all the ladies now they are spread out again but soon started to relax back into it.

 

[LaFleche]

Absolutely over the moon to have been able to let our flock outside today!

How I envy you! We have to keep ours still in flockdown and they are getting very restless and ornery by now.

 

[HollyWoozle]

Oh no! I am sorry to hear that. There have actually been 2 new cases in the last week or so, both commercial farms, so the area surrounding those is still in flockdown. I believe I heard/read somewhere that eggs can only be marketed as 'free range' for a certain time after the chickens have been shut in, so perhaps there are commercial motivations behind it more than anything.

I hope that yours will be able to roam again soon.

 

[KingD]

Just remembered this morning that the hens can once again be let free in the garden(and the woods). They are thoroughly enjoying themselves. They are currently under a tree having dust baths. Some of them still think it's more exciting to stay in the run

 

[LaFleche]

Oh no! I am sorry to hear that. There have actually been 2 new cases in the last week or so, both commercial farms, so the area surrounding those is still in flockdown. I believe I heard/read somewhere that eggs can only be marketed as 'free range' for a certain time after the chickens have been shut in, so perhaps there are commercial motivations behind it more than anything.

I hope that yours will be able to roam again soon.

Yes, the marketing aspect might have influenced them in lifting the flockdown.

Usually I have already chicks at this time of year, but with all chickens locked up I just could not convince myself.