Defra has lifted its ban on gatherings of certain poultry and birds, including chickens, turkeys and pheasants, following the UK's largest ever outbreak of bird flu.

From this week, gatherings of birds, which also include partridge, quail and guinea fowl, are permitted.

However, gatherings of ducks, geese and swans are still banned, Defra said.

The changes only apply to England, with all gatherings still banned in Scotland and Wales, although the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone in Scotland was lifted in July.

READ MORE: Avian Influenza cases confirmed at three sites in Scotland

This followed a risk assessment, where the level of risk associated with highly pathogenic avian influenza to poultry and other captive birds was reduced to low.

Defra states that since 1 October 2022, there have been 158 cases of bird flu in England, 32 cases in Scotland, eight cases in Wales and one in Northern Ireland.

Farmers and keepers still need to follow the requirements of the poultry gathering general licence and notify the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) at least 7 days before the event.

The latest outbreak, which began in 2021, has seen millions of birds culled.

READ MORE: New bird flu outbreak confirmed in Scotland

Dr Christine Middlemiss, the UK’s chief veterinary officer, said 'scrupulous biosecurity' remained the most critical form of defence to help keep birds safe.

The Scottish Government urges bird keepers to continue implementing strong biosecurity measures, as infection is still present in the environment and amongst wild birds.

It remains mandatory to report all suspect cases of notifiable avian disease to your local Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) Office.