It’s show time: spotlight on exhibition bird biosecurity

The video offers tips for exhibitors and poultry enthusiasts, highlighting what individuals can do to mitigate biosecurity risk before, during and after a show.

RIRDC Program Manager, Michael Beer encouraged those involved in the exhibition industry to share the video and take note of the important messages.

“The video brings to life key biosecurity messages and is a practical way of reinforcing biosecurity standards in the poultry fanciers and exhibition community.

“We are always looking for engaging ways to connect with industry and encourage adoption of best practice. This is just one way we are continuing to improve awareness and implementation of biosecurity measures,” said Mr Beer.

With the 2017 national show circuit underway, Royal Agricultural Society of NSW Poultry Committee Chair, Adrian Saines said the exhibition bird biosecurity video is a timely reminder for exhibition groups, individuals exhibiting birds, breeders and those involved in live bird sales.

“People travel great distances with their birds, they may cross state borders and move across the country to attend shows and events. Spreading of diseases can potentially be disastrous for flocks – we have to be careful.

“Poultry disease can spread easily and quickly, most notably through bird-to-bird contact, environmental factors and human interaction. We urge exhibitors to follow procedures to mitigate biosecurity risks both at home and at events,” said Mr Saines.

Watch and share the Exhibition Bird Biosecurity video via YouTube

For more biosecurity information, refer to the National Biosecurity Manual – Exhibition Poultry.

Exhibition Bird Biosecurity General Rules:

• Keep equipment and poultry clean
• Avoid contact between poultry, wild birds and rodents
• Don’t let feed and water become contaminated
• Have a vaccination and parasite control program
• Don’t take any birds to a show if there are signs of illness
• Clean and disinfect all bird equipment and transport containers
• Keep a record of all bird movements
• Only handle your own birds at the show
• Quarantine new and returning birds