·        Controls on bird gatherings are made through amending / revoking the bird gatherings general licence and not through any of the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) measures. 

·        Although lower risk non-poultry bird gatherings are still permitted all captive birds must be housed except when attending gatherings.  There are some exemptions where it is not possible to meet the basic welfare requirements of particular species by permanent housing for example zoo birds and some game birds, in these cases proactive steps must be taken to prevent contact either directly or indirectly with wild birds for example by fully netting/covering areas. 

·        Gatherings include (but are not limited to) bird fairs, markets, shows, sales, exhibitions, and some premises used for dealing or internet sales. In addition, vehicles used to transport live birds where the birds are brought together from multiple premises (so called many-to-one or many-to-many activities) are also considered gatherings. 

·        Bird gatherings are not permitted within a disease control zone, outside of these areas bird gatherings are only permitted if they meet the General Licence conditions. Check the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) interactive map to see the location of disease control zones currently in force and the relevant declaration for details of the control measures in that zone. 

·        The bird gatherings general licence currently available each of the three GB administrations do not permit gatherings of poultry (Galliformes or Anseriformes birds). Galliforme birds include pheasants, partridge, quail, chickens, turkey and guinea fowl. Anseriforme birds include ducks, geese and swans. Gatherings of all other types of birds including pigeons and bird of prey are still permitted, provided that the APHA has been notified of the gathering at least 7 days before the event and that the gathering meets all the requirements of the general licence. 

·        Further guidance for bird gatherings has been published on GOV.UK.  Definitive requirements are set out in the published General License for the relevant administration (England, Wales and Scotland). 

·        The status of the bird gatherings general licence will be kept under regular review as part of the government’s work to monitor and manage the risks of avian influenza, and any decisions on amending or withdrawing the general license will be based on risk assessments containing the latest scientific and ornithological evidence and veterinary advice.