Suspected mass bird flu deaths found in second state as Murray Watt warns ‘this is the beginning’
Summary
Mass deaths of native birds suspected to be caused by deadly H5 bird flu have been found in two Australian states, South Australia and Victoria. Officials warn this is likely the start of a long and difficult period for wildlife affected by the rapidly spreading disease.Key Facts
- Mass bird deaths were first confirmed at Baudin Rocks off South Australia’s coast.
- Aerial surveillance in Victoria found clusters of dead and sick greater crested terns in the Glenelg River estuary and Lawrence Rocks.
- Samples from both states tested positive for the H5 bird flu virus.
- The disease affects wild birds, which can fly and move freely, making it hard to control.
- The South Australian government confirmed 18 new bird flu cases in multiple locations.
- Important habitats like internationally significant wetlands and breeding colonies are threatened.
- Officials focus on building resilience in native bird and mammal populations to cope with the outbreak.
- The spread of the virus in wild birds signals a growing impact on Australia’s wildlife.
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