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Keeping captive birds in the UK: what the new DEFRA registration rules mean

3 April 2026

Keeping birds, whether chickens in the garden, pigeons for racing, birds of prey, or exotic parrots as pets, has long been a popular hobby across the UK. However, recent changes introduced by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) have significantly altered the legal responsibilities for bird keepers.

These updates, largely driven by concerns over avian influenza (bird flu) and Newcastle disease, mean that almost all bird owners must now register their birds.

What changed in 2024?

The biggest shift came into force on 1 October 2024 in England and Wales, and between 1 September and 1 December 2024 in Scotland.

Previously, only keepers with 50 or more birds had to register. Now, anyone keeping even one bird must register, with very limited exceptions.

This change followed a government consultation in 2023 after widespread outbreaks of avian influenza across the UK, with more than 360 confirmed cases in poultry since late 2021.

Why DEFRA introduced these changes

The main reason is disease control, particularly avian influenza and Newcastle disease. By registering bird keepers:

  • Authorities can contact you quickly during outbreaks
  • Disease spread can be tracked and contained
  • Backyard and hobby flocks are better protected
  • Disease control zones can be managed more effectively and lifted sooner

Who needs to register?

Under the new rules, you must register if you keep:

  • Chickens, ducks, geese, or other poultry (regardless of where they are housed, including indoors)
  • Pigeons or racing birds
  • Birds of prey
  • Most other captive birds

This applies even if they are pets and even if you keep just one bird. You must register within one month of keeping birds at any premises in England or Wales, or you are breaking the law.

In Scotland, keepers must register via the separate Scottish Kept Bird Register (SKBR).

Important exceptions

Not every bird requires registration. You do not need to register psittaciformes (the parrot family, including budgies and cockatiels) or passeriformes (perching birds, including canaries and finches) if they meet both of the following conditions:

  • They are fully housed in a dwelling (your home or another indoor structure)
  • They have no access to the open air

If these birds are taken outdoors at any time - for example to be exercised, trained, or taken to bird gatherings or shows - they must be registered. However, you do not need to register an exempt bird simply to take it to a veterinary practice.

It is important to note that poultry species must always be registered, even if kept entirely indoors. The indoor exemption applies only to psittaciformes and passeriformes.

How registration works

Registration is handled by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA). You will need to provide your contact details, where the birds are kept, species and number of birds, and their purpose (pets, eggs, breeding, etc.).

Registration is free and takes around 10 minutes online. You can also register by email at customer.registration@apha.gov.uk or by calling APHA on 03000 200 301.

Ongoing responsibilities

Registration is not a one-time task. You must:

  • Update any changes within 30 days (for example, changes to address, species, purpose, or a change in numbers of plus or minus 20%)
  • Confirm your details annually

This ensures authorities can respond quickly during disease outbreaks.

Bird gatherings and shows

If you take your birds to fairs, markets, shows, exhibitions, or other gatherings, these events must be run in accordance with a general licence issued by DEFRA. Event organisers are required to comply with notification and biosecurity requirements, and must keep a record of all people who bring birds to, or take birds from, a gathering.

If your bird is normally exempt from registration (for example, a parrot kept indoors), taking it to a show or gathering will mean it must be registered beforehand.

What happens if you don't register?

Failure to register is a legal offence under the Avian Influenza (Preventive Measures) Regulations. Potential penalties include fines and up to 3 months' imprisonment under the Animal Health Act 1981. Non-registration also leaves your birds, and others nearby, more vulnerable during outbreaks, as authorities will have no way to contact you.

Key takeaway

The new DEFRA rules mark a significant shift in UK bird keeping. What was once a relaxed hobby is now more regulated. If you keep birds, even just one, it is essential to understand your responsibilities and stay compliant.

For further information, visit the GOV.UK bird registration guidance or contact APHA directly.