Let’s stop the spread of bird flu in WA

Hi Clive,

On Friday 19 June, a Brown Skua bird was found with H5 bird flu (H5N1) at the Cape Le Grand National Park near Esperance, Western Australia. A Giant Petrel was also found in the area with confirmed case of H5N1.

This marks the first cases of the deadly strain of avian influenza in mainland Australia – the response now will help curtail the very worst outcomes.

Globally, H5N1 has killed millions of wild birds and tens of thousands of mammals. Researchers have found the disease at Heard Island off the coast of WA, which has estimated to have killed 13,000 elephant seal pups and hundreds of penguins.  

The threat of H5N1 for native wildlife in Australia could be devastating. Experts have warned that if it spreads to native wildlife, it will be very difficult to control and manage, and some species like the Black Swan may not survive. The H5N1 can also be contracted by other species, which could have a new and potentially catastrophic impact on threatened ecological communities and species who are facing multiple threats from loss of habitat, ferals, climate change and more.  

BirdLife Australia have reminded us that one in six birds in Australia are already facing the threat of extinction. They have also prepared some helpful and important responses that we can all take.

If you find a sick or dead bird that you suspect could have Avian Influenza (H5N1), remember to: 

• AVOID contact with sick or dead wildlife and their environment. Do not touch, move, or approach the bird, and do not allow pets to touch or eat sick or dead wildlife. 
• RECORD what you see, the location the animal was found, and take photos or video (if possible) without approaching the bird. 
• REPORT any unusual illness or death in wild birds and other wildlife immediately via the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888. 

To find out more, you can download BirdLife Australia’s H5 factsheet or watch BirdLife’s webinar, which helps you understand more about the H5 bird flu and what to look for, explains more about BirdLife Australia’s role in national preparedness, gives you guidance on how to report suspect cases, and other practical steps you can take now to help avoid the worst outcomes.