Bird keepers in Powys must now register with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).

This became a legal requirement at the start of October, according to the county council.

Previously, only those with 50 or more birds had to register.

However, the new law means all keepers of poultry and other captive birds must register, regardless of flock size.

Powys County Council’s animal health team is urging those who haven't yet registered to do so immediately.

By registering, keepers will receive updates and guidance if there's a disease outbreak, such as bird flu, in their area.

This helps prevent the spread of disease and protects all kept birds, including backyard flocks.

Councillor Richard Church, cabinet member for a safer Powys, said: "The new registration requirements will help bird keepers to protect their flocks.

"The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) will be able to contact bird keepers if there’s a notifiable disease outbreak in their area, such as bird flu, to inform them about actions they need to take to protect the health of their birds, and to prevent the spread of disease.

"It is important to remember that scrupulous hygiene and biosecurity remain essential to protect flocks from the threat of disease.

"Bird keepers have worked hard to protect their flocks from the risks of avian influenza in recent years and I want to thank them for their continued efforts."

Keepers will need to review their entry on the register annually to ensure their details are up to date and any changes are recorded.

Some types of captive birds that are kept as pets and live solely indoors without any outside access are exempt from registration.

For more information, visit www.gov.uk/poultry-registration.