Bird Flu Confirmed in Lincolnshire

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The National Gamekeepers’ Organisation is informing its members that the Department for Environment, Food &, Rural Affairs has today (16 December) confirmed a case of avian influenza (bird flu) in turkeys on a poultry farm near Louth in Lincolnshire.

As a result of the outbreak, a 3km Protection Zone and a 10km Surveillance Zone have been set up around the poultry farm where the bird flu infection (the strain found is H5N8) has been identified. Turkeys on the poultry farm will be culled.

Please be aware that within these 3km and 10km zones, a number of restrictions and movement controls have been put in place to help prevent the spread of disease. A summary of the restrictions and movement controls can be found by clicking here

More detailed information on the measures that have been introduced and a map marking the zones can been viewed here

It should be noted that the measures introduced today (16 December) are in addition to the enhanced biosecurity measures already in place across England, Scotland and Wales. The Avian Influenza Prevention Zones, which were announced on 6 December, require poultry and captive bird keepers to continue to house their birds, where practicable, maintain their biosecurity and keep a close watch on the health of their birds. For full details see

A spokesman for the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation said: “It is important that the shooting community remains vigilant. Information on how to spot bird flu symptoms can be found on the Defra website. Shooting is not restricted in either of the zones, but be aware that the measures now in force prevent all movement of poultry, and gamebirds (alive or dead) within or from the 3km zone. Shot birds and game meat however can currently be moved within and from the 10km zone. We would urge all shooting interests in the vicinity of the infected farm to give due consideration to their plans at this time.”

The NGO will continue to monitor the situation on behalf of its members and will provide further updates as is necessary.

Notes to Editors

The National Gamekeepers' Organisation represents the gamekeepers of England and Wales. It defends and promotes gamekeeping, gamekeepers and ensures high standards throughout the profession. It was founded in 1997 by a group of gamekeepers who felt that their profession was threatened by public misunderstanding and poor representation. The NGO has around 15,000 members.

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