After almost three months inside, it hardly seems possible that in just three days we are able to let our poultry out. Unfortunately, not everyone in the country will be able to do so however because some areas have been classed by DEFRA as still ‘high-risk’ and for them, the lockdown is to continue for another TWO months!! High risk areas are, on the whole, areas near water because water attracts wild birds, who are of course the Avian Flu carriers, with wild fowl being the main type of carrier. If we still lived in Minions, we would be in a high risk area, presumably due to the proximity of Siblyback Lake. Another reason to be thankful we have moved.
The terms of the 'letting out' are quite strict: as mentioned on 7th, ponds need to be drained or covered. In addition feed and water must remain under cover, bio-security needs to continue as strictly and ideally birds should be contained in a fenced area. Our poultry paddock is fenced and on the whole the birds stay within it. We do of course have those chickens who like to pop over to the barn to lay their eggs but we will simply have to see if those concerned remember, or if three months of laying in the stable has now become a habit!! (fingers crossed).