All bird keepers in Scotland (with exceptions) are being reminded that they must register their birds, even if they only own one bird – by 1 December using the Scottish Kept Bird Register (SKBR).
Registering on the SKBR becomes a legal requirement on 1 December 2024. This new regulation is designed to strengthen biosecurity, provide bird keepers with vital information to help protect their flock and improve the effectiveness of government in tackling avian diseases such as avian influenza and Newcastle disease.
Under the new legislation, all those who keep birds (with exceptions) — whether on a commercial scale or as hobbyists — must register their birds and flock locations on the SKBR. The SKBR replaces the Great Britain Poultry Register (GBPR) within Scotland, meaning any Scottish poultry keepers previously registered on the GBPR will need to register anew on the SKBR.
Who needs to register?
Poultry keepers with 50 or more birds: Commercial and large-scale keepers must ensure their flocks are listed, including those involved in poultry egg and meat production, gamebird management and other commercial poultry activities.
Small-scale poultry keepers and hobbyists: Those with fewer than 50 birds must comply, including back garden chicken owners, bird of prey owners, racing pigeon owners and bird hobbyists – even if keeping one single bird.
Pet bird owners: While certain birds such as parrots, budgies, and other indoor pets may be exempt in certain situations, pet owners are encouraged to check their birds’ status and may be legally required to register.
Rehabilitation centres, visitor attractions, and agri-tourism businesses with birds: These organisations, particularly those with non-fully enclosed aviaries or poultry, are required to register.
Sheila Voas, Scotland’s Chief Veterinary Officer said: “These changes to bird registration will help protect the health of kept birds and the public. The new online register will make monitoring the health and biosecurity of birds in Scotland more efficient and make us better prepared to respond to any avian disease outbreaks as quickly and safely as possible. All relevant bird keepers have a legal requirement to register by the 1 of December 2024.”
For more information on the Scottish Kept Bird Register, including guidance on how to register and details on exemptions, visit: www.gov.scot/register-your-birds.