UK kept bird registration
Government bird registration helps authorities contact keepers and manage disease outbreaks. Rules depend on where birds are kept, the species and their access to the outdoors. NEBR registration is separate and does not fulfil a government registration requirement.
Official sources checked 26 October 2026. Confirm current requirements with the relevant authority.
England and Wales
Keepers generally must register poultry and other captive birds within one month, including small flocks. Parrots and other psittaciformes, and passeriformes such as finches and canaries, are exempt if fully housed in a home or another indoor structure with no access to open air. Taking them outdoors to exercise or train requires registration; a visit to the vet does not. Check gathering rules with the organiser.
Read official guidance ↗How to register and update
For fewer than 50 birds, use the APHA registration guidance and the appropriate online service or form. There is separate guidance for 50 or more birds. Provide keeper and premises details, species, numbers and purpose. Confirm your details annually and report relevant changes within 30 days; a change in bird numbers alone does not need reporting if the total remains below 50.
Read official guidance ↗Scotland
Use the Scottish Kept Bird Register. Scottish guidance exempts specified parrots and passerines kept fully indoors without outdoor access, or outdoors in a fully enclosed structure. Birds taken outdoors for exercise or training must be registered. Taking an exempt bird to a vet or bird gathering does not currently trigger registration. Keep the registration up to date.
Read official guidance ↗Northern Ireland
Use DAERA’s bird registration system. Official guidance exempts pet birds kept in the owner’s home. If your circumstances are unclear, contact DAERA to check whether registration applies.
Read official guidance ↗What to keep on record
Keep your registration confirmation and the relevant premises and contact details securely. Record changes and check government guidance after a move, new species or change in keeping arrangements. Government registration, NEBR Bird IDs, pet-selling licences and CITES certificates serve different purposes.
