BACKYARD POULTRY AND PET BIRDS

Planning Helps Avoid Problems

By Edward T. Mallinson.

A variety of official rules exist to control the movement of birds. You should know what regulations might affect your bird or flock when transporting them nationally or internationally.

To have the most fun and obtain the most profit from keeping backyard poultry or pet birds, you need to do some planning. But first, it is important to be aware that poultry and other birds (avian species) are subject to the same general sorts of laws and regulations that affect other types of pets and livestock. Second, bear in mind that sound economic principles apply to avian operations as they do to other business ventures. Third, plan to manage poultry and birds with care and skill to protect both their health and yours.

The following serves as an introduction to the planning needed to ensure that your avian experience is as safe and enjoyable as possible.

Laws, Regulations

Backyard poultry, including game birds and waterfowl, and most of the various assortments of pet or hobby birds need to comply with a variety of official rules. These may be local ordinances, state regulations, or laws developed by Congress. Various departments of agriculture, interior, wildlife, commerce, and health may be involved. Rulings frequently deal with health certifications and tests for poultry or birds transported within a state (intrastate rules), between states (interstate), and into or away from the United States (international).

Your State Veterinarian knows the rulings that would affect your bird or flock. Contact your State Department of Agriculture for the address and telephone number. Your local librarian also may be of considerable assistance.

Know the rules before you start, especially if you are involved in buying, selling, dealing, trading, showing, shipping, breeding or hatching. Watch for zoning ordinances.

Economic Aspects

Home-produced eggs and Poultry meat generally are More expensive than those available at food stores. Personal enjoyment and other values may, however, be more important to you.

Know your market before you start. Have a good idea of who will buy, sell, or process what you produce.

Identify sources for specialty and medicated feeds needed for your flock or aviary. Locate one and preferably two dependable suppliers.

Consider annual purchase of started pullets for egg production. This may save you complexities and problems common to rearing your flock from 1 day of age on up.

Obtain details on the proper processing, storage and refrigeration of poultry and eggs if you intend to have sufficient production for retail sales. Your county Cooperative Extension agent can supply excellent guidance.

Veterinary Help

Before beginning, locate a source of competent veterinary help. With or without a disease outbreak, professional guidance can help in many ways.

State veterinary medical associations (address and phone number often available from State Veterinarians or local librarians) can frequently help pet bird owners and backyard poultry producers locate a veterinary practitioner specializing in avian medicine.

Proper avian health care should include regularly scheduled visits to the veterinarian, so be sure to locate a source of competent veterinary help in your area.

Most States operate several diagnostic laboratories handling poultry and other birds. These laboratories often provide their services free of charge. Many operate under auspices of your State university or college of veterinary medicine. Your State department of agriculture or State Veterinarian will guide you to those diagnostic laboratories closest to you.

Your Health Risks

Be aware that, as with most other similar activities, there are some health risks.