top cx logo
cx logo
Explorearrow down
search icon

Risk of bird flu rises to high in France, poultry must be kept inside

Livestock must be kept away from migratory birds which might be carrying the virus

All poultry must be kept inside when the bird flu risk rises to ‘high’ Pic: monticello / Shutterstock

The risk of bird flu in France has been moved to “high” due to an increase in cases in neighbouring countries. 

This is outlined in a decree posted in the government’s official legal publication Le Journal officiel today (November 5).  

French farmers will now be obliged to shut their poultry stock inside to avoid contact with migrating birds which may be carrying the virus, or at least install a net above their yards in order to prevent anything else from getting in. 

The Netherlands also imposed this measure last week. 

Gatherings involving birds – including carrier pigeon competitions – that take place at least partly in France are also banned until March 31, 2022. 

In zoos, birds that cannot be kept inside or underneath a net must be vaccinated. 

Last winter, France recorded nearly 500 bird flu outbreaks in poultry farms, mostly in the southwest, which is known for its production of foie gras. This led to the culling of more than 3.5 million birds, mostly ducks.

“Since the beginning of August, 130 cases or outbreaks of bird blue have been detected among wild animals or in European farms, most notably along the North Sea and Baltic Sea coastlines, including three German farms,” the French Ministry of Agriculture said in a statement. 

“The confinement of all professionally-reared poultry stock has been required in the Netherlands following the detection of one outbreak among a population of laying hens.

“In Italy, six outbreaks have been reported in turkey farms in the Verona region since October 19,” it added. 

Cases have also been reported in France, but only in non-professional “backyard farms” in Ardennes and Aisne. 

This allows France to conserve its “bird flu free” status, which allows it to continue exporting its poultry products. 

The country’s risk level had already risen to “moderate” on September 10, requiring some farmers to keep their birds inside. This included those located along the Atlantic coast, which is more frequently visited by migratory birds.

Certain members of the industry opposed this measure, claiming that it went against the “point” of their job as free range farmers and “deceived” consumers who wished to buy free range products. 

Related stories 

New twist for hunters in France: Songbird trapping banned again

Why French government agreement marks historic day for animal welfare

Autumn in France: How to help hedgehogs as winter approaches

Resident or second-home owner in France?
Benefit from our daily digest of headlines and how-to's to help you make the most of life in France
By joining the newsletter, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy
See more popular articles
The Connexion Help Guides
featured helpguide
Healthcare in France*
Featured Help Guide
- Understand the French healthcare system, how you access it and how you are reimbursed - Useful if you are new to the French healthcare system or want a more in-depth understanding - Reader question and answer section Aimed at non-French nationals living here, the guide gives an overview of what you are (and are not) covered for. There is also information for second-home owners and regular visitors.
Get news, views and information from France