National Pigeon Association GB

Check what counts as a bird gathering

Gatherings involve the collecting together of poultry or other captive birds. They include (but are not limited to):

• bird fairs
• markets
• shows
• sales
• exhibitions
• some premises used for dealing or internet sales
• vehicles used to transport live birds where the birds are brought together from multiple premises (known as ‘many-to-one’ or ‘many-to-many’ activities)
• the bringing together of birds, or incubating eggs that are close to hatching, from more than one premises where they will return to the same or different premises

What activities do not count as gatherings

The following activities are not classed as bird gatherings:

• birds which are brought together from different locations onto one premises, but where no birds leave that premises until more than 14 days have passed since the last bird arrived on the premises
• an activity where all of the birds have come from the same premises and then return to that same premises afterwards
• a sale of birds which have all come from the same single premises (for example, a dispersal sale or ‘re-homing’) even if the birds go to multiple new locations

The National Pigeon Association would like to update members on the latest developments regarding Bird Gathering Licences and the current Avian Influenza (AI) risk position, following on meeting of 6^th March. Recent changes from DEFRA and APHA represent a positive step for our community, and we remain committed to ensuring members receive clear, timely information as the situation evolves.

Fancy Pigeons Currently Covered Under the General Licence

Following DEFRA’s latest review, Fancy Pigeons are now permitted to gather under the General Licence, reflecting a reduction in the assessed risk level for Columbiformes. This means that gatherings involving Fancy Pigeons can now proceed under the General Licence, provided organisers meet the standard conditions set out within it. This change was informed by the latest risk assessment, now published on GOV.UK, which has assessed all Columbiformes — including racing pigeons — as a single order for the purposes of AI risk evaluation.

Information taken from Qualitative risk assessment. February 2026

Racing Pigeons; While included in the overall Columbiformes assessment, Racing Pigeons participating in the sport of racing continue to be the subject of a separate and specific risk assessment. This remains unchanged.

Important Note on Risk Levels

Licensing decisions remain risk‑dependent. If national or regional AI risk levels increase, the decision to permit gatherings under the General Licence may be reviewed or withdrawn or moved to the Specific Licence. Members and show organisers should remain alert to updates issued by DEFRA and APHA.

Avian Influenza: Current Position

The overall risk level for gatherings has decreased, enabling the move to the General Licence. However, AI has not disappeared entirely, and the situation can change seasonally. Members are encouraged to maintain strong loft hygiene, monitor their birds closely, and remain aware of any local restrictions that may arise.

Specific Licence Process: Improvements Underway

As discussed in our recent meeting, the NPA is working closely with APHA to improve and streamline the process for applying for Specific Licences. This work aims to ensure that:

•          Agreement in principle can be issued in good time

•          The required 7‑day reassessment can still take place without delaying organisers

•          Show secretaries have greater clarity earlier in the planning process

We are also exploring the option for organisers to apply for a Specific Licence even when their event would currently fall under the General Licence, so that:

If risk levels rise, and the General Licence is withdrawn, the event can still proceed under a Specific Licence without last‑minute disruption.

This proactive approach is designed to protect shows from sudden changes in risk status and to give organisers greater confidence when planning events.

PMV Vaccination Requirement

As previously communicated, compulsory Paramyxovirus (PMV) vaccination remains in place for all pigeons exhibited at NPA‑affiliated shows. This requirement aligns with DEFRA’s expectations and supports our collective biosecurity.

Working Together

We want to reassure members that the NPA is actively engaged with DEFRA and APHA on these points. Our focus remains on:

•          Ensuring requirements are proportionate

•          Reducing unnecessary burdens on organisers

•          Protecting the future of Fancy Pigeon exhibitions

•          Maintaining strong, credible biosecurity standards

During the meeting of the 6^th March, we would like to update members on two areas of work currently underway with DEFRA and APHA, Contingency Plans and Bird Experts. These discussions are part of our ongoing commitment to ensure that the Fancy Pigeon community is represented fairly, and that any requirements placed on our shows are practical, proportionate, and workable for organisers.

Contingency Planning

DEFRA have shared a contingency plan guidance/template designed to help show organisers prepare for unexpected changes — such as shifts in risk levels, venue issues, or last‑minute licensing requirements. A Contingency Plan is a condition of all licence application.

We are working through this looking at:

• Whether the template is practical and easy to use
• Whether the guidance is clear and understandable
• Any areas that feel unclear, overly complex, or missing detail
• Suggestions that could make it more suitable for pigeon gatherings specifically

This should ensure that any final version is genuinely fit for purpose and reflects the realities of organising Fancy Pigeon events and the wider bird fraternity.

Defining a “Named Bird Expert”

Another area under discussion is how to better define or qualify a “named bird expert” — a role that could, in some circumstances, replace the requirement for a veterinary surgeon to check birds at events where additional risk‑mitigation measures are needed.

This is an important piece of work. If we can establish clear, credible criteria for what constitutes a suitably qualified bird expert, it may allow for greater flexibility at shows while still maintaining high standards of bird health and welfare.

We are working on what would be a ‘legal definition of a bird expert’, suitable for all bird groups.

• What criteria or training are required to become a judge of Columbiformes health
• What skills, experience, or knowledge should be expected of someone checking birds for signs of ill health
• Any existing qualifications, assessments, or codes of practice that could help define this role

Our aim is to develop a definition that gives DEFRA confidence in the expertise of those carrying out checks, while recognising the depth of knowledge already present within our community.

Continuing Engagement

We will continue to update you as discussions progress and as more formal outcomes are agreed. Another meeting with Defra is planned for April.

The National Pigeon Association Committee wishes to update all members on the recent changes introduced by DEFRA to the licensing requirements for bird gatherings, which came into force in early December. Many of you will already be aware that Fancy Pigeons now fall under the Special Licence, a category that carries additional conditions for any event where pigeons are exhibited.

Impact on Shows and Licensing

The Committee recognises the significant challenges these new requirements present for show organisers. The Blackpool Fancy Pigeon Show (RPRA) was granted its licence at the very last moment, but we are pleased to report that the show was held successfully and passed all inspections without issue.

Several other shows have applied for licences; however, in some cases the approval has arrived too late for events to proceed. The Committee understands the frustration this causes and wishes to highlight that some of the new conditions are particularly difficult to meet, including:

• Mandatory veterinary presence at events, in high-risk mitigation cases
• A 14‑day stand‑down period between events for participating pigeons
• Venue suitability assessments and enhanced biosecurity measures

We are actively engaging with the relevant authorities to clarify these requirements and to ensure that the needs of the Fancy Pigeon community are fully understood.

Biosecurity and Welfare: Compulsory PMV Vaccination

In light of DEFRA’s updated conditions, and following the Special General Meeting held on 15th February, the NPA has formally amended its Constitution and Rules to introduce compulsory Paramyxovirus (PMV) vaccination for all pigeons exhibited at NPA‑affiliated shows. This aligns with DEFRA’s requirement that all pigeons being exhibited or raced must be vaccinated. Vaccination must be carried out strictly in accordance with the manufacturers instruction issued with the vaccine, The Government’s Veterinary Medicines Directorate has approved two medicines for vaccinating against paramyxovirus: Colombovac PMV and Nobilis Paramyxo P201

A vaccination declaration form is enclosed within this issue of the magazine. Exhibitors must complete this form at the time of vaccination and submit a copy either with their entry forms or on the morning of the show to the show secretary. Exhibitors will also be required to provide ring numbers for all pigeons exhibited.

Further clarification and guidance will be provided in the June issue, once we have received additional information from APHA.

Strengthening the Committee

To support our work during this period of significant regulatory change, the Committee has co‑opted Aled Bradbourn. Aled’s professional expertise as a veterinary surgeon, combined with his long-standing involvement in the Fancy Pigeon community, will be invaluable in helping us interpret the new requirements and communicate them clearly to members.

Ongoing Engagement with APHA and DEFRA

The Committee is working diligently to understand the rationale behind the new licensing framework and to identify practical ways to reduce risk while ensuring the continued viability of Fancy Pigeon exhibitions and reducing the risk of the spread of Avian Influenza.

Representatives Aled, Graham B, Helen, and Mark attended a multi‑stakeholder meeting in early February alongside other groups affected by the changes. A further meeting, dedicated solely to the NPA, is scheduled for early March. We are committed to keeping members informed as these discussions progress.

Communication and Conduct

Members with specific questions are encouraged to contact me directly by email. Queries will be circulated to the Committee so that responses can be coordinated and accurate.

We kindly ask that all comments made on social media or in correspondence with MPs remain respectful and constructive. Maintaining a professional and united voice strengthens our position in discussions with government bodies.

The Committee appreciates the patience and cooperation of all members during this period of transition. We remain fully committed to safeguarding the welfare of our birds, reducing the associated risk of Avian Influenza, whilst supporting our shows, and ensuring the long‑term future of Fancy Pigeon exhibition in the UK.

More information will follow in due course.

 

Notify APHA of a bird gathering

In England you must notify APHA at least 7 days before a bird gathering of psittaciformes, birds of prey, passeriformes and columbiformes.

Telephone the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301 and choose the relevant options for APHA.

You’ll need to provide the following information:

• date (or range of dates) of the gathering
• location of gathering (full postal address and postcode, and county parish holding (CPH) number (if applicable))
• types and numbers of birds expected
• purpose of the gathering (for example, show, sale or racing)
• your name, address and contact phone number, and an email address and mobile number

APHA will notify the local authority about the gathering on your behalf.

Keep records for 3 months

You must keep records of bird gatherings for at least 3 months after each event, including:

• name, address and contact number of anyone moving birds to and from the gathering
• types and numbers of birds exhibited, raced, transported, bought or sold at the gathering

APHA or the local authority may ask you for this information. Consult the licence conditions for definitive requirements on taking and retaining records of bird gathering.

Follow the conditions of your licence

By law you must meet the conditions listed in your licence at the bird gathering.

The Local Authorities Animal Health Function (LAAHF) work with APHA to check that bird gatherings meet their licence conditions. The LAAHF is normally part of the Trading Standards or Environmental Health Service of a local authority.  

If a bird gathering is breaking the law, you can report this to your LAAHF. Use the postcode tool to find details of how to contact your LAAHF.

Risk of bird flu (avian influenza) at bird gatherings

The status of the bird gathering licences will be kept under regular review as part of the government’s work to monitor and manage the risks of notifiable avian disease.  

Defra will make any decisions on granting, amending or withdrawing licences based on the most up to date information about the risk of bird flu transmission which is available to Defra, including the latest scientific and ornithological evidence and veterinary advice.  

Defra could withdraw or amend a bird gatherings licence with immediate effect if the risk of notifiable avian disease increases.

You can find further information on the latest disease situation for avian influenza, Newcastle disease and paramyxovirus guidance.