Bird flu danger? Ostalbkreis guide for poultry farmers in use!

Bird flu danger? Ostalbkreis guide for poultry farmers in use!

In Baden-Württemberg, bird flu is evident in the wild bird scene, but the situation in the Ostalbkreis remains calm for the time being. How Rem newspaper reports, Gmünd's swan representative Hans Stollenmaier expressed concerns about the impact of bird flu on black swans in the region. Wild birds such as greylag geese have already shown some cases of infection in the Ellwanger Lake District in recent years, but there are currently no confirmed outbreaks among farm poultry in the Ostalbkreis.

“The likelihood of black swans becoming infected is considered to be low,” said district office spokeswoman Susanne Dietterle. Even in 2024 and 2025, only a few birds found dead had to be tested for the virus, and these turned out negative. In fact, poultry farmers in Ostalbkreis who are well-equipped through previous experience with biosecurity measures can remain calm, although a certain level of vigilance is still necessary.

Biosecurity measures and reporting requirements

This makes it all the more important that pet owners can react to possible risks. If there are frequent deaths in the poultry population, you are obliged to report this immediately to the veterinary office. If suspected cases arise, there are standardized procedures that include, among other things, an obligation to keep a stable and strict hygiene requirements. If the pathogens are detected, there is a risk that the affected stocks will have to be killed and disinfected. “This means significant economic cuts for livestock farmers,” says Andrea Bauer from the state farmers’ association, who nevertheless emphasizes that panic is not necessary. “The biggest challenge is not to become operationally blind,” she adds.

In order to counteract the potential spread of bird flu, a nationwide general order was issued in Baden-Württemberg on November 18, 2025, which is valid until January 15, 2026. Animal owners with more than 5,000 animals must informally report an increased risk of infection to the veterinary authorities, which automatically leads to the obligation to keep them in stables. This shows how seriously the situation is being taken, where the safety of poultry flocks is the priority. Nationwide biosecurity measures have been in effect for farms with fewer than 1,000 animals since January 21, 2023.

Poultry trade rules

The poultry trade is particularly affected by recent developments. On November 13, 2025, we learned of a press release suggesting preventative restrictions on the traveling poultry trade. From August 1, 2025, new regulations with additional examination, reporting and documentation requirements will apply. The aim is to minimize the risk of the disease spreading without banning all trade.

Overall, it remains to be seen how the situation will develop over the winter. The poultry farmers in the Ostalbkreis are well prepared, even if they have to be prepared for the unexpected at any time. A good hand at monitoring inventory is now more in demand than ever. We will continue to monitor developments closely and, if necessary, inform those responsible from the * Ministry of Rural Affairs * will take a stand.