The movement of domestic birds has been banned in Alderney because of bird flu. 

The island has been declared an ‘Avian Influenza Infected Area’. 

Imports and exports of all poultry is now blocked and keepers are being told their flocks must be contained. 

The States’ General Services Committee says any that aren’t will be considered feral and could be culled. 

It follows the confirmed case of bird flu in a small chicken flock and the threat to the gannet population which is already dying in large numbers from the disease. 

The GSC says the formal poultry lockdown is on the advice of the States’ Vet. 

GSC Chairman Boyd Kelly says clear communication has been helpful:

'Avian Influenza is primarily a disease affecting birds and therefore the health risk to the general public is very low. However, we want to protect our domestic flocks as well as do our best for our amazing wildlife.

The action we have taken is important but it plays second fiddle to the helpful co-operation we have experienced with poultry owners and the general public.'

Owners who suspect an infection must immediately report it to the authorities on 221161.