14/08/2026
A little reminder for all our backyard chicken keepers ❤️🐔
Like many of you, we absolutely love our chickens. They’re funny, full of personality and become such a special part of our daily lives.
With bird flu (avian influenza) being detected in Victoria, we wanted to share a few simple reminders to help everyone look after their backyard flocks.
A little note from us that while we love our chickens and care deeply about our local poultry community, we remain closed at this time and unfortunately aren’t able to respond to individual messages asking for advice about illnesses or symptoms in your flock. We are also not experts in diagnosing poultry diseases.
If you are worried about your chickens or notice anything unusual, please reach out to the appropriate animal health contacts who can provide accurate advice and support.
It’s always better to ask early if something doesn’t seem right. ❤️
For those of us who love our backyard chickens, there are some simple things we can all do to help keep our flocks safe:
🐓 Keep wild birds away where possible
* Try to stop wild ducks, waterbirds and other visiting birds accessing your chicken feed and water.
* Cover runs where possible and avoid placing feeders where wild birds can gather.
🌾 Look after their food and water
* Store feed in sealed containers.
* Clean up spilled grain that may attract wild birds.
* Keep drinkers clean and refreshed regularly.
👢 A little extra hygiene goes a long way
* Wash your hands after handling your chickens.
* Consider having dedicated boots or shoes for the coop.
* Keep feeders, drinkers and equipment clean.
🐔 Keep an eye on your flock
You know your chickens better than anyone. Signs to look out for include:
⚠️ Chickens becoming unusually quiet, tired or withdrawn
⚠️ Loss of appetite or not drinking
⚠️ A sudden drop in egg production
⚠️ Breathing difficulties, coughing or discharge
⚠️ Swollen faces, combs or wattles
⚠️ Weakness, trouble walking or unusual movements
⚠️ Several birds becoming sick at the same time
⚠️ Unexpected deaths
Most importantly though, don’t panic ❤️
A few simple biosecurity habits can make a huge difference in protecting our backyard flocks.
Give your girls (and boys!) a little extra love today, check their food and water, and enjoy the wonderful little characters that they are 🐔🌿
If you suspect bird flu, contact the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888 for advice.
Please share this with fellow chicken keepers so we can all help keep our flocks safe. 🐔
