Bird flu outbreak confirmed near Penicuik
Bird keepers and the public are being urged to act following a confirmed outbreak of Highly Pathogenic avian influenza (bird flu) in premises near Penicuik last night on 22 December. The bird flu outbreak is caused by a virus that primarily affects birds and presents a very low risk to humans and other animals.
New control zones in place
The Scottish Government and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) have introduced new disease control zones around the premises. These zones include a 3km Protection Zone and a 10km Surveillance Zone, within which strict disease control measures now apply.
Action required
Anyone who keeps poultry (including chickens, ducks, geese or turkeys) or captive birds (such as pigeons or birds of prey) within either zone must take action immediately.
Bird keepers
Bird keepers located inside the blue 3km or black 10km zones shown on the APHA interactive map must register or update their details on the Scottish Kept Bird Register without delay. This is a legal requirement, and registration must be completed by 5 January 2026.
To register
- Register online
- 01466 405101
The affected zones
To check whether your premises fall within the affected zones, visit the APHA Interactive avian influenza Disease Map
Spotting and reporting avian influenza
Bird keepers are strongly encouraged to familiarise themselves with the rules and biosecurity measures required within disease control zones. Information on how to spot, prevent, and report avian influenza can be found on the Scottish Government website:
Anyone who has concerns about the health of their birds, or suspects avian influenza, should contact the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) immediately on:
- 03000 600 711
Advice for the public
The public are reminded not to pick up or touch dead or sick wild bird and to keep pets and dogs away from them.
If the public come across dead wild birds report them:
- On the national online reporting tool for dead wild birds