A PROTECTION zone across Scotland aimed at preventing the spread of the 'bird flu' virus has been extended until February 28.
The zone applies to all poultry and captive birds in the country.
All poultry keepers are asked to keep birds indoors, or to take appropriate practical steps to stop them from coming into contact with wild birds.
A large number of people in Argyll and Bute keep small numbers of poultry, although anyone with less than 50 birds is not required to register.
Councillor David Kinniburgh, the council's policy lead for regulatory services, said: “We would ask that all keepers of poultry and wild birds follow the current advice from the Scottish Government.
“We would also ask members of the public to notify us of any poultry which is not being kept under cover."
The Scottish Government advice is available online by searching www.gov.scot for 'avian flu', while the council's animal health team can be contacted on 01546 60 5519 or email AnimalHealth@argyll-bute.gov.uk.
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