Avian influenza disaster: Farmer fights for future in Lower Saxony!

Avian influenza disaster: Farmer fights for future in Lower Saxony!

Avian influenza is striking with full force in Lower Saxony. Farmer Holger Nöhrnberg from the region observed unusual behavior in his laying hens back in October. Veterinarians immediately suspected the dreaded disease, which led to the killing of around 1,000 hens on his farm. However, this is only part of a much larger problem: As of November 5th, a total of 763,629 animals had been killed this year due to avian influenza, as reported by the Lower Saxony Ministry of Agriculture. This situation represents a major challenge for the affected farmers, who are already facing financial difficulties. Nöhrnberg's vending machine has been empty since mid-October because it can no longer sell eggs. The hope that the crisis will end soon remains uncertain, especially since his supplier is in a restricted area.

Bird flu has spread like wildfire since mid-October, particularly in the Cloppenburg district, where over 30 outbreaks have already been recorded in poultry farms. This region alone has 2,257 farms with around 12.3 million animals, which explains the high susceptibility to such outbreaks. The authorities have set up protection and surveillance zones that include a ban on the import and export of birds. In the first affected districts, such as Stade and Verden, hunters are even allowed to kill sick cranes in order to shorten the animals' suffering, despite their special protective measures under the Federal Nature Conservation Act.

Bright spots and challenges for agriculture

The situation is extremely stressful for farmers in Lower Saxony. Nöhrnberg describes the situation as a “complete catastrophe”. The emotional decision to kill chickens was particularly difficult for the farmer, who works with his animals every day. But the fears go beyond the loss of the animals. Uncertain supply after the lockdown is lifted is plaguing farmers as they rely on new hens to get their business up and running again.

In addition to the burden of animal disease management, there have also been repeated criticisms of animal disease policy. Julia P Feier-Schlichting, the state representative for animal protection, speaks out clearly against factory farming and calls for measures to improve animal welfare guidelines. “The virus can be spread through contaminated footwear and equipment,” warn the experts, and emphasize the need for consistent safety measures.

A look at the future

The current challenges clearly show how fragile the animal husbandry system is. Almost 700,000 animals have already died or been killed and the situation remains tense. While authorities continue to work on solutions, farmers are forced to remain cautious and anxious about the future. Consolidating the population and protecting the remaining animals must now be the top priority. The welfare of the animals and the existence of the companies depend on each other more than ever.

Despite all these difficulties, there is still hope for improvement, because farmers are known for having a good hand even in times of crisis and for not giving up. However, it remains to be seen whether this crisis will soon be over, as any solution is still only rudimentary and uncertainty remains.