Northern Ireland Farms Report Decline in Poultry Numbers

Northern Ireland’s farms have experienced a reduction in poultry numbers, following a recovery observed in 2023. Data from the most recent farm census, conducted in June 2024, indicates that the overall poultry population declined by 8%, reaching a total of 23.7 million birds. Furthermore, categories of poultry excluding chickens—specifically turkeys, ducks, and geese—which saw a notable rise in 2023, have since decreased by slightly more than one-fifth (21%). In other livestock categories, dairy cattle registered a modest increase, whereas beef cattle experienced a minor reduction. The sheep population saw a 4% decline, while the number of pigs increased by merely 1%. The overall acreage dedicated to crops has seen a slight reduction, with Winter Barley exhibiting the most significant drop at 18%. All cereal types, with the exception of spring barley, recorded a decrease. The agricultural census further reveals that the total land area under cultivation in Northern Ireland has remained largely consistent since 1984, standing at just over a million hectares. The count of individual farms saw only a marginal increase, with the predominant portion (79%) continuing to be categorized as very small operations. The average farm size displayed variation across different counties, ranging from 26 hectares (64 acres) in County Armagh to 38 hectares (94 acres) in County Antrim. The comprehensive average for all farms was 33 hectares (81.5 acres). Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding their policy on external linking is available.