Chicken farmers and industry leaders from across Canada flocked to London for this week’s National Poultry Show. But due to an avian flu outbreak in southwestern Ontario, there wasn’t a chicken in sight.
This year’s event at the Western Fair (agriplex) comes as the poultry sector navigates rising food costs, rapid advances in farm technology, and perhaps most pressing, an avian flu outbreak.
“We want to make sure the event is safe for the entire industry,” said show manager Ashley Castleman. “We are taking biosecurity very seriously.”
“We are taking biosecurity very seriously. We also don’t have any live animals at the show. It’s an education-focused event. We want to make sure the event is safe for the entire industry,” Said Castleman
Avian influenza is a type of influenza A virus which is mainly found in wild birds. Avian influenza can also infect domestic and commercial poultry, such as chickens and turkeys. It continues to circulate in Ontario as of early 2026.
Just in December of 2025, 4 cases of avian flu were detected in a Municipality of North Perth, Ontario.
She has mentioned that exhibitors were informed in advance of the strict biosecurity measures, including avoiding farm clothing to reduce the risk of cross-contamination at the event.
One of the show partners is the Poultry Industry Council. They speak about avian flu, and the event have exhibitors like the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture to talk about how to take different measures.
The show offers the chance to connect with suppliers and see what’s new in the industry.
“I came to see all the new equipment and technology, and for work,” said Mike Mitchel, attendee of the event.
Mitchell said what sets this event apart is its focus on a single industry.
“I’ve been here for three years, so it is interesting to see such a strong industry with lots of people and lots of independent producers as well. So, obviously, lots of good equipment vendors,” he added.
The Western fair district held the National Poultry Show from Feb. 4 to Feb. 5.
Chicken image at the National Poultry Show – Credits: (Daniel Monroy – XFM News)
