The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) is urging all poultry and bird keepers across Northern Ireland to remain vigilant for signs of avian influenza (bird flu).

In recent days, highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 has been confirmed in a small backyard flock in Co. Donegal and in flocks across six locations in England.

In all cases, birds were humanely culled to prevent further spread.

DAERA said that these findings "highlight the persistent and serious threat" posed by bird flu to both commercial and backyard flocks.

The department reminded all bird keepers, regardless of the size or type of flock, to remain alert and take all necessary steps to minimise the risk of infection, particularly from wild birds.

Recent weeks have also seen multiple cases of bird flu detected in wild birds, particularly in coastal regions of Ireland and Great Britain.

One confirmed case has been reported in a wild bird found in Co. Down.

DAERA has emphasised the critical importance of strict biosecurity in preventing the introduction and spread of the disease.

"Robust biosecurity remains the most effective defence against avian influenza, protecting individual flocks and the wider poultry industry," the department said.

Bird keepers are advised to consult the biosecurity checklist and biosecurity guidance available on the DAERA website to ensure best practices are being followed at all times.

DAERA also reminds all bird keepers, with the exception of those who keep pet birds exclusively within their home, that registration of their birds is a legal requirement.

Those who have not yet registered are asked to download and complete the registration form available on the DAERA website.

The public is encouraged to report any findings of dead wild birds using the DAERA dead wild bird online reporting tool.