Poultry Policy: Keeping poultry on allotments is permitted, so long as the
Society's rules and this guidelines are followed. If these are
not adhered to, permission to keep poultry will be withdrawn.
GOOD POULTRY PRACTICE
These guidelines have been produced to provide a basic guide as to
standards expected of members who keep poultry on their allotments.
CONTAINMENT
It is essential that the birds are securely contained
within the allotment. Secure containment includes preventing birds
from escaping by flying out as well as preventing rats, foxes or
other predators getting in. Unwelcome human interference needs to be
considered too. The advice of your field steward should be followed
as she/he will have experience of the local conditions on your
field.
RATS
As mentioned above, the structures must be built to prevent rats
from entering or living there. It is recommended that all structures
be lined with strong wire mesh too fine for a rat to squeeze
through. Poultry food should not be stored on the plot, but
taken to and from the allotment daily. Only enough food that can be
eaten by poultry in 40 minutes should be given at a time, as any
surplus will be wasted - you are feeding the rats not your poultry.
Any signs of rats should be reported to your field steward or the
secretary and effective measures taken by you to eliminate
them - poison, traps etc.
HOUSING
In addition to effective containment, housing is also key in
ensuring the welfare of your birds and should allow natural
behaviour.
*The henhouse should be minimum size of 2 sq feet per chicken, with
a fully enclosed shelter that provides protection from predators.
* Clean dry bedding, best are wood shavings or straw
* Warmth in winter months and shade in the summer
* Perches for sleeping on.
* Nest boxes for laying eggs
* Outdoor run, minimum of 4 sq feet per bird.
* You should provide them with plenty of space to dig , dust
themselves and flap their wings.
BOTH HOUSING AND RUNS SHOULD BE REGULARLY MAINTAINED TO A GOOD TIDY
STANDARD.
FEED
Your chickens should have access to
• Clean fresh water daily.
• 120 grams of layer pellets and corn daily which
is an appropriate diet that is nutritional
• Insoluble grit to aid digestion.
• Food stuff must be kept clean and dry and
properly protected from rodents by removing it from the plot each
day.
HEALTH
It is your responsibility to monitor and maintain a flock free from
distress, pain, injury and disease
We expect members to maintain high standards of welfare for their
birds in a clean and tidy housing. In this way, everyone can enjoy
the presence of poultry.
FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH YOUR TENANCY AGREEMENT RULES OR MEET THE
MINIMUM STANDARDS IN THESE GUIDELINES MAY RESULT IN TERMINATION OF
YOUR ALLOTMENT TENANCY