Laws & Regulations

There are many hoops that a hatchery must go through to be able to ship birds nationwide. Bird hatcheries establish NPIP (National Poultry Improvement Plan) Approved status so they can sell and ship birds nationally.  Additionally, many hatcheries want to achieve the Pullorum-Typhoid Clean,  AI Clean (Avian Influenza), H5/H7 Avian Influenza Clean, and SE Monitored (Salmonella Enteriditis) statuses. Regular testing at the hatcheries must be completed to achieve these statuses.  When these statuses are achieved, hatcheries may post the AI Clean, and SE Monitored stamps as shown on their labels and packing slips so the customer is aware.

“The National Poultry Improvement Plan was established in the early 1930’s to provide a cooperative industry, state, and federal program through which new diagnostic technology can be effectively applied to the improvement of poultry and poultry products throughout the country. The development of the NPIP was initiated to eliminate Pullorum Disease caused by Salmonella pullorum which was rampant in poultry and could cause upwards of 80% mortality in baby poultry. The program was later extended and refined to include testing and monitoring for Salmonella typhoid, Salmonella enteritidis, Mycoplasma gallisepticum, Mycoplasma synoviae, Mycoplasma meleagridis, and Avian Influenza. In addition, the NPIP currently includes commercial poultry, turkeys, waterfowl, exhibition poultry, backyard poultry, and game birds. The technical and management provisions of the NPIP have been developed jointly by Industry members and State and Federal officials. These criteria have established standards for the evaluation of poultry with respect to freedom from NPIP diseases.” –National Poultry Improvement Plan

For more information:
General NPIP Information
NPIP Program Standards
Official State Agencies

CDC -Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention works to provide information on the relationship between humans handling and caring for backyard poultry and the potential health risks that can occur.  Some diseases found in poultry and other fowl can be transferred to humans, the most common is Salmonella. Visit our Salmonella page and visit these CDC links to find out more on protecting yourself and your family:
CDC -Backyard Poultry
CDC- Keeping Backyard Poultry

USDA- APHIS (Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service) 
The United States Department of Agriculture APHIS runs the Biosecurity for Birds campaign to help raise awareness among backyard, hobby and pet bird owners. For more information on protecting your flock from diseases visit these links on the APHIS website:
Biosecurity for Birds
Biosecurity Explained -6 Simple Steps
Know the Signs of Disease and How to Report Suspected Illness