Import Risk Analysis - Pigeons
Page Content
Changes in Conditions for the Importation of Pigeons and Fertile Pigeon Eggs
An Import Risk Analysis (IRA) on the importation of live pigeons and their fertile eggs was prepared by Biosecurity Tasmania and made available for public comment during December 2019 and January 2020.
The changes outlined in the IRA came into effect on 19 February 2020.
The IRA proposed that the importation into Tasmania of pigeons and their fertile eggs be amended to reflect the same requirements that have been adopted for poultry and cage birds; that is without restriction, except for the requirement that imported animals appear healthy on visual inspection and be under no current movement restrictions.
Pigeon Paramyxovirus 1 (PPMV1) was detected in Tasmania in 2013. Both Pigeon Paramyxovirus 1 (PPMV1) and Pigeon rotavirus may cause a significant impact to individual pigeon owners and pigeon events. Given that the diseases are present in Tasmania, and that pigeon races across Bass Strait have recommenced, these risks are considered best managed on a flock and event basis by implementing sound biosecurity measures and/or flock vaccination under the advice of a veterinarian.
The IRA (below) provides detailed background on the review that was undertaken:
Import Risk Assessment: proposed changes in conditions for the importation of Pigeons and Fertile Pigeon Eggs (382Kb)
For further information: