[Tigerwren]

Hi all,
might sound like a really daft question, but I was wondering if anyone knows if I can take some chicks/ chickens over to my mum in Northern Ireland?  (In a cage on the ferry - they would stay in the car)Would there be any reason why this might be a problem or is it allowed at all?  She is thinking of getting some little sablepoot bantams and I have struggled to find any suppliers over there, whereas I know I can get something nice over here..
Thanks for any replies

[PaulineM]

Hi
I don't see any reason why you couldn't take some over but you would be better to contact the ferry operator just to make sure.
There might be some disease control thing though!

[orchardlady]

I would suggest a cardboard box or a rigid plastic cat carrier but make sure it's a dark environment for them and that there is plenty of air circulating. They'll then stay nice and quiet for the journey.

OL

[Kym503]

Not sure how long the journey is but when the car is moving (ie not when on the ferry) I wouldn't put them in too big a box as too much space would mean they might move a bout alot and injure themselves. 

[joyfull]

for a long journey don't forget too provide them with a little drink every now and them.

[richyrich7]

I would have thought you'd be better checking with DEFRA or similar, I know NI's in the UK but best to be sure and within the law

[Tigerwren]

 Thanks everyone for your re[plies, they have been very helpful!

[GrannieAnnie]

Hope it goes well for you!

When I took 6 chicks up to Scotland to Munty and Aggy, Munty told me to cut a sponge and fit it into a margarine tub.  Keep it damp.  Then they don't spill the water, they just dip their beaks in and get the water from the sponge.  I made sure it was very wet though, and it was only a small tub!

[Springlands]

Hi Tigerwren - I think that you should check with the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development  in Northern Ireland regarding the transport of live chickens to NI. There are restrictions on the import of livestock into NI to prevent the import of diseased stock. They can be contacted on 028 9052 0100. Hope that helps.

[Tigerwren]

Thanks all, you have been a great help, and thank you Springlands for including the number - much appreciated!