Poultry producers of laying hens in Portugal have until the last day of September to declare the total number of birds on their farms. This obligation, established by Order No. 293/2015, has been in force for over ten years and applies to all producers with more than 350 laying hens. Breeding laying hen farms remain exempt from this procedure.
The declaration must be submitted twice a year: by the last day of February, based on the flock existing on February 1, and by the last day of September, considering the number of birds on September 1. This process aims to ensure health control and monitoring of poultry farms.
The process is managed by the Directorate-General for Food and Veterinary Affairs (DGAV), which provides the digital platform AviDec for producers to directly register their laying hens. Those who prefer may also register in person at the Regional Food and Veterinary Services (DSAVR).
DGAV clarified that, contrary to information circulating on social media, non-compliance with the declaration does not imply the culling of the birds. In case of failure to declare, what may occur is the application of fines, as provided for in current legislation.
