The biggest threat to backyard flocks and poultry farms is infectious disease transmitted by humans, wild birds and migratory waterfowl. Of highest concern are the viral threats of avian influenza and exotic Newcastle disease. These biosecurity basics will help keep your backyard flock healthy and prevent the spread of disease between flocks and poultry farms.
Isolate New Flock Mates
Any new birds you bring home, whether they’re shipped from a hatchery, purchased at a feed store or from a local breeder, should be kept separate from your flock for 30 days. Do not attend or get birds at poultry swaps or auctions, as they are high risk environments for disease transmission. Additionally, impose a minimum of a two-week quarantine (with 30 days being optimum) for any of your birds returning home after a fair or exhibition.
Protect Chicken Feed & Water
Wild birds love your chicken feed and they will mingle with your chickens, sharing illnesses and even parasites. If your flock free ranges, devise a system that limits wild-bird access, whether it’s by using a special feeder or by feeding only what the flock will eat at regular intervals throughout the day.
Keep The Chicken Yard Clean
Chicken areas, like the coop and run, should be kept clean enough that the areas do not smell. Moisture buildup in bedding, excess feces in the coop and ammonia odor all work together to contribute to general ill health, leaving a chicken's immune system more susceptible to illness. These dirty areas can also harbor bacteria, viruses and parasites from wild birds visiting the area. Additionally, any new equipment from a store that has been in contact with other birds should be cleaned and sanitized before using it with your flock.
Boots, Clothes and Hands
Have a designated pair of boots/shoes that are only for your chicken area, and consider having clothes for the task as well. Do not wear "off farm" shoes in your chicken area, and do not wear your "farm shoes" in public areas. While humans are not at risk of contracting bird flu or Newcastle disease, we are susceptible to other illnesses, like Salmonella, so always wash your hands thoroughly after working with your birds to help protect your own health.
Limit Coop Access
Limit access to your poultry area by other poultry keepers. Make sure they disinfect themselves prior to entering your property. Don't share garden and yard tools with neighbors who keep poultry unless the tools are cleaned. Humans can transmit disease between flocks with infectious matter, including manure on shoes, clothing and tools.
Deter Wild Birds
Bird feeders attract wild birds, and chickens will eat whatever the birds drop. Eliminate bird feeders on your property.
Report Chicken Illnesses and Deaths
If you have a bird die from an unknown cause, consider having a necropsy done by the Washington State Avian Health Lab to determine the reason for the death. Additionally, if you have multiple birds die or notice symptoms of severe illness, contact them for further guidance.
Washington State Avian Health & Food Safety Lab
2607 W Pioneer, Puyallup WA 98371-4900
Email: WADDLAHL@vetmed.wsu.edu
Phone: 253-445-4537
Website: waddl.vetmed.wsu.edu/avian
Isolate New Flock Mates
Any new birds you bring home, whether they’re shipped from a hatchery, purchased at a feed store or from a local breeder, should be kept separate from your flock for 30 days. Do not attend or get birds at poultry swaps or auctions, as they are high risk environments for disease transmission. Additionally, impose a minimum of a two-week quarantine (with 30 days being optimum) for any of your birds returning home after a fair or exhibition.
Protect Chicken Feed & Water
Wild birds love your chicken feed and they will mingle with your chickens, sharing illnesses and even parasites. If your flock free ranges, devise a system that limits wild-bird access, whether it’s by using a special feeder or by feeding only what the flock will eat at regular intervals throughout the day.
Keep The Chicken Yard Clean
Chicken areas, like the coop and run, should be kept clean enough that the areas do not smell. Moisture buildup in bedding, excess feces in the coop and ammonia odor all work together to contribute to general ill health, leaving a chicken's immune system more susceptible to illness. These dirty areas can also harbor bacteria, viruses and parasites from wild birds visiting the area. Additionally, any new equipment from a store that has been in contact with other birds should be cleaned and sanitized before using it with your flock.
Boots, Clothes and Hands
Have a designated pair of boots/shoes that are only for your chicken area, and consider having clothes for the task as well. Do not wear "off farm" shoes in your chicken area, and do not wear your "farm shoes" in public areas. While humans are not at risk of contracting bird flu or Newcastle disease, we are susceptible to other illnesses, like Salmonella, so always wash your hands thoroughly after working with your birds to help protect your own health.
Limit Coop Access
Limit access to your poultry area by other poultry keepers. Make sure they disinfect themselves prior to entering your property. Don't share garden and yard tools with neighbors who keep poultry unless the tools are cleaned. Humans can transmit disease between flocks with infectious matter, including manure on shoes, clothing and tools.
Deter Wild Birds
Bird feeders attract wild birds, and chickens will eat whatever the birds drop. Eliminate bird feeders on your property.
Report Chicken Illnesses and Deaths
If you have a bird die from an unknown cause, consider having a necropsy done by the Washington State Avian Health Lab to determine the reason for the death. Additionally, if you have multiple birds die or notice symptoms of severe illness, contact them for further guidance.
Washington State Avian Health & Food Safety Lab
2607 W Pioneer, Puyallup WA 98371-4900
Email: WADDLAHL@vetmed.wsu.edu
Phone: 253-445-4537
Website: waddl.vetmed.wsu.edu/avian