There has been a major H5N1 avian flu outbreak in the UK recently. I’m sure even non-chicken keepers have heard of H5N1 in the past (I know I have, even back in Malaysia. H5N1 is highly contagious, and although there is a low risk transmission to humans, half a million birds have been culled at present as it can cause severe pneumonia. Basically it’s like COVID 2.0 (but this isn’t the first H5N1 outbreak).
To protect our chickens (and ourselves), we have to place them in a covered run (aka massive cage). Yes, very unfortunately they cannot enjoy the freedom they are very used to. It seems to happen every winter anyway; when the birds are migrating. We basically need to avoid our little chicks from getting in touch with any infected birds’ poo and saliva. Most of the carrier of H5N1 are actually wild birds; and I’m sure you know that birds poo like rain! Even when they are flying!!