A bird flu surveillance zone remains firmly in place across a significant portion of the Somerset Levels following recent government updates.
The highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 strain was first identified on November 29, 2025, at a large commercial poultry farm near Ashcott, situated between Bridgwater and Street. In response, the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) established a three-mile protection zone around the affected site and a broader ten-mile surveillance zone. All poultry at the infected premises were culled to prevent further spread.
Due to recent changes relating to bird gatherings, Defra has adjusted the boundaries of both the protection and surveillance zones slightly. Clear signage has been placed along main roads to inform motorists traversing these areas.
READ MORE: How January Babies Can Enjoy Free Food and a Chance to Win £100 at Zizzi
READ MORE: Double Storm Goretti Warning: Dangerous Winds and Heavy Snow Expected in Somerset
In addition, a separate outbreak of the same H5N1 strain among non-commercial captive birds led to the implementation of a three-kilometre (1.8-mile) captive bird controlled zone in the Dunwear area of Bridgwater.
The protection zone covers the villages of Ashcott and Walton, parts of Street, including Street Business Park on Gravenchon Way, and a large section of the Avalon Marshes nature reserve.
Expanding beyond this, the surveillance zone now encompasses the entire areas of Butleigh, Compton Dundon, Glastonbury, Middlezoy, Othery, and Street, along with most of Somerton and Westonzoyland, as well as the eastern edge of Woolavington and the southern edge of Wedmore.
Poultry businesses within these zones must maintain strict records of all visitors, documenting dates, times, and any contact with birds on the premises.
‘Mandatory housing’ measures for birds remain in effect, as advised by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA). According to an APHA spokesperson:
“If you keep 50 or more birds, you must house them, regardless of species. For those with fewer than 50 birds used strictly for personal use (non-commercial), housing is not mandatory. However, if you sell or give away eggs, meat, or live birds from fewer than 50 birds, housing is required.”
Defra and APHA have confirmed these protective measures will remain until further notice, with any updates to be announced via official government channels.