THERE are fears that chickens could be abandoned in Cheshire following an increase in ownership during lockdown and concerns around bird flu.

The RSPCA says many people may have bought chicks earlier in the pandemic – even looking for hens to provide eggs when supermarkets saw food shortages – before realising they could not look after them.

In Cheshire, the charity dealt with 17 incidents of chicken being abandoned between January and November, and it fears many more could follow.

Kate Parkes, poultry welfare specialist at the RSPCA, said: "It’s really important that owners follow Government biosecurity advice to help protect the health of their birds as well as to try and limit the spread of the virus.

"All pet poultry owners need to stay vigilant for signs of disease and ill health in their flocks and it’s vital they seek veterinary advice if they have any concerns for their birds.

"We’re concerned that worries about bird flu and changes to how we’re allowed to keep hens may lead to more owners abandoning their pets, putting more pressure on rescue centres."

Following confirmed cases of bird flu, including in Cheshire West, bird keepers currently need to keep their birds indoors and follow the Government's biosecurity advice.