Poultry farmers face a major challenge: protecting their poultry flocks from the threat of avian influenza viruses. To achieve this, they implement a rigorous set of measures that combine prevention, surveillance and adaptation to seasonal risks.
Strict biosecurity
Biosecurity is the first line of defence against the introduction and spread of avian flu. It relies on strict practices such as regular disinfection of facilities and equipment, and controlled access to and from farms. These measures reduce the risk of contamination from outside the farm. Farmers also focus on minimising factors that attract wild birds, the main carriers, by effectively managing litter around buildings. Wearing specific clothing for use on the farm is another important barrier to preventing accidental transmission.
Temporary confinement
During periods of high risk, such as seasonal migration of wild birds, temporary confinement of poultry is often recommended or even required. This preventive measure limits their direct or indirect contact with potential carriers of avian influenza, significantly reducing the likelihood of contamination.
Improved health monitoring
Health monitoring plays a vital role in farm management. Rigorous monitoring of animals helps to detect early signs of infection. This relies on close observation and increased communication with health authorities. In case of suspicion, rapid action can be taken to prevent the spread of the disease within the farm or to neighbouring farms.
Scaring methods and tools developed by AgriProTech
Various types of repellent systems can be used to complement the above measures. These include the use of physical barriers such as fences and nets to prevent wild species from accessing sensitive areas.
Acoustic repellers use specific sounds, such as distress calls or warning signals specific to certain species, to keep birds away from protected areas. This technique, offered by the AviTrac® bird repeller, is adapted to seasonal problems, such as migratory periods when the risk of epidemics is greater.
Laser repellers use a moving beam to scare away birds and other animals. One example is theLazerTrac® range and the LazerTrac® LZT1000 model, which, with its advanced programming and autonomous, dynamic operation, is also perfectly suited to these needs.
Laser repeller to protect poultry farms
This last method is detailed in the podcast "How laser technology can keep wild birds away from poultry farms" recorded by Mark Clements, editor at Poultry Watt (Global Media).
To take this a step further, read this testimonial from a poultry farmer who uses a LazerTrac® repeller to keep birds away from his poultry houses (article in French) :
Réussir Volailles - 10/02/2023 : Avian flu: ‘I use a laser scarecrow to keep birds away’. (Original : Grippe aviaire : " J'utilise un effaroucheur à laser pour éloigner l'avifaune")
