FINAL BTV UPDATE | OCTOBER 2026

The Scottish Government has confirmed that the whole of Scotland will become a Bluetongue Restricted Zone from 00:01 on Saturday 3 October 2026.

This means:

Bluetongue movement license will no longer be required for livestock movements within Scotland or between Scotland, England and Wales.

• Animals showing signs of bluetongue must not be moved.

• Animals affected by bluetongue will remain restricted to their premises for 60 days.

• Restrictions on movements to Northern Ireland remain in place.

Although these changes make trading easier, customers should continue to act responsibly, particularly when moving livestock from farms with recent confirmed infection.

Vaccination remains the most effective way to protect livestock against the effects of bluetongue. Customer should speak to their vet to plan vaccination and secure supplies ahead of next year’s higher – risk season.

Any suspected cases must be reported immediately to APHA

Further information is available at www.gov.scot/bluetongue