Workshop 2: Emerging and re-emerging diseases in minor poultry species and backyard poultry production

Minor poultry species and backyard flocks present distinct challenges for disease recognition, diagnosis and prevention. Differences in species susceptibility, husbandry, flock structure and contact with wild birds require approaches adapted to each setting. This workshop will explore emerging and re-emerging disease challenges in racing and meat pigeons, backyard and village poultry, guinea fowl, and game birds, including pheasants, partridges and quail.

Four species-focused sessions will address the recognition of clinical signs, relevant differential diagnoses and practical approaches to investigation and diagnostic sampling. Particular attention will be given to how production systems, bird movements and contact between species influence disease introduction and spread, and how these factors can guide prevention and control.

By the end of the workshop, participants should be better equipped to recognise disease problems in these diverse populations, select appropriate diagnostic approaches and translate findings into feasible flock-health measures. The workshop is intended for poultry veterinarians, avian practitioners, diagnosticians and other professionals involved in the health and management of minor poultry species and backyard flocks.