DISEASE control measures have been put in place after a second suspect case of notifiable avian influenza was identified in a small mixed species `hobby flock' in Co Antrim.
Northern Ireland's Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Robert Huey said around 30 birds were humanely culled in Broughshane and Temporary Control Zones (TCZ) have been introduced to help stop "onward disease spread".
"Whilst the first suspected case is in a large commercial site, this one has affected a hobby flock keeper, with some of the birds considered family pets - that indicates just how vulnerable our flocks are to incursion, no matter their size," he said.
"There is no doubt this is an extremely difficult and upsetting experience for both flock keepers, and we do not want this to affect anyone else or to have to cull any more birds.
"I am urging commercial keepers of large flocks, as well as those with even just one pet bird, to strictly adhere to the biosecurity measures in place.
"The measures are there to first and foremost protect your flocks, but also to protect your business and to protect you from the devastation of having your flock culled."
Samples have been sent to the National Reference Laboratory to confirm pathogenicity of the strain detected.
If it is the highly pathogenic AI is confirmed a three kilometre `Protection Zone' and 10 kilometre Surveillance Zone will be imposed.
Members of the public have been encouraged to report dead waterfowl (swans, geese or ducks) or gulls, or five or more dead wild birds of other species in the same location, to the DAERA helpline on 0300 200 7840.
