SCENES FROM A UK CHICKEN FARM CULLING

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN A MASS SLAUGHTER OF POULTRY MOVES AHEAD

From EPD 24 : "The first sign of a government response comes at 10.20am when two officials and two vets from Defra are ushered in and kitted out in blue coveralls, face masks and protective rubber wellies.

"Closely behind is a water tanker loaded with eight 10kg tubs of VikronS disinfectant, which claims to be effective against all 18 types of virus affecting man and animals.

"The fate of the 35,000 birds becomes apparent soon afterwards with the arrival of a lorry laden with cylinders of the deadly gas argon followed by another vehicle bearing sealed steel gas chambers.

"As the day wore on, the ground ran white with disinfectant foam as 12 state veterinary service doctors and vets in blue and white coveralls passed through the gate, their hazardous task reflected by the shielded gas-masks worn by a select few.

"Working their way from shed to shed, the shrouded figures prepared the chickens for the cull and took more blood samples from the flock.

"The killing began at about 4pm yesterday and will continue today, with chickens either being gassed or shot with a stun gun.

"Evidence of the grisly work was apparent from the bulging yellow sacks of carcasses which were driven away to be rendered or incinerated off-site."

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