Nearly 2,000 abandoned chickens have been reported to the RSPCA already this year and the charity fears this number could rise due to bird flu.

Worryingly, these shocking new figures are already 8% higher than for the entirety of 2020 (1,704) with 1,841 abandoned chickens reported to the RSPCA's cruelty line in 2022 so far. They are on course to also surpass 2021's total - which saw 1,841 abandoned chickens reported to the charity.*

In the South West there have been 158 reports of abandoned chickens since 2020 - with the highest numbers in Hampshire (30).

Sadly, the UK has experienced the worst outbreak of Avian Influenza (AI) ever seen this year with high numbers of sick and dying birds being reported. Pet hens have spent the majority of the year housed indoors after a housing order meant they were on 'flockdown' for the first five months of the year. Another housing order came into effect for England earlier this month and will come into force for Wales on Friday 2 December.

Since 2020, there have now been 5,351 chickens reported as neglected or abandoned to the RSPCA's cruelty line.

Kate Norman, poultry expert at the charity, said: "Keeping hens has become increasingly popular in recent years but it's incredibly sad to see so many of them being abandoned and neglected. We are concerned that we could see an increase in the number of dumped chickens due to the cost of living crisis and concerns over bird flu. 

"We are now sadly once again in the midst of a bird flu outbreak which has seen the UK Government take the necessary steps to issue a housing order for all keepers of birds in England. Not only is this stressful for the hens as birds that have previously roamed around a garden or smallholding are now being kept inside, but it's also understandably stressful for owners.

"We would urge anyone who is struggling to care for their pets to please reach out for help from friends or family, or charities. Please never abandon any animal."

Pet owners are also advised to follow government biosecurity advice to help protect the health of their birds as well as to try and limit the spread of the virus. All pet poultry owners need to stay vigilant for signs of disease and ill health in their flocks and it's vital they seek veterinary advice if they have any concerns.

For information on bird flu, how this impacts poultry and the public visit the RSPCA Assured website.

If you believe that animals deserve love and care during this Christmas period, please take action now. Together, we can rescue suffering animals and give them the chance of a better future. To Join the Winter Rescue and help our rescuers be there for the animals in need, please visit our web page here.

Numbers : Abandoned chickens - 2020: 1,704, 2021: 1,806 and 2022 (up to November): 1,841.

County

2020 - 2022

Cornwall - 14

Devon - 23

Dorset -22

Gloucestershire - 12

Hampshire -30

Isle of Wight - 2

Oxfordshire - 13

Somerset - 19

Wiltshire -10

Bristol - 13

Total - 158