Helicopter surveillance off South Australia has found dozens of dead and dying greater crested terns, suspected to be the first mass mortality event from the H5N1 bird flu virus, just six weeks after the disease arrived in the country.
Key facts
- More than 80 dead and sick birds were seen on rocks off the South Australian coast.
- Helicopter surveillance found 49 dead greater crested terns on Baudin Rocks, near Robe.
- A further 35 sick terns were also observed.
- The event is suspected to be Australia's first mass mortality from the H5N1 virus.
- The disease arrived in Australia around six weeks before the report.
More than 80 dead and sick birds spotted on rocks off the South Australian coast are suspected to be the first mass mortality event caused by the deadly H5N1 bird flu virus in Australia, according to the Guardian. The finding comes only six weeks after the disease arrived in the country.
Authorities reported on Saturday that helicopter surveillance had revealed 49 dead greater crested terns on Baudin Rocks, near Robe, off the South Australian coast, the Guardian reported. An additional 35 sick terns were also observed at the site.
The surveillance was described as tracking the spread of the H5 virus among native birds, with the event suspected to represent the first mass mortality of its kind in Australia since the disease’s arrival.
The rapid escalation of the virus among native birds has raised concern, given how recently the disease reached Australian shores. The Guardian noted the disease arrived only six weeks before the mass mortality was suspected.
At the time of reporting, the details available focused on the discoveries at Baudin Rocks. Further information about the wider spread and confirmation of the cause was not detailed in the initial report.
Why it matters
The H5N1 bird flu virus has caused mass die-offs of wildlife in other parts of the world, and its rapid escalation in Australia signals a potential threat to native bird populations. Monitoring events like this helps authorities gauge how quickly the disease is spreading and what impact it may have on ecosystems.
Frequently asked questions
Where were the dead and sick birds found?
According to the Guardian, the birds were found on Baudin Rocks, near Robe, off the South Australian coast, where helicopter surveillance revealed 49 dead greater crested terns and 35 sick ones.
How long has bird flu been in Australia?
The Guardian reported that the H5N1 bird flu virus arrived in Australia about six weeks before the suspected mass mortality event.
How many birds were affected?
More than 80 dead and sick birds were seen, including 49 dead greater crested terns and 35 more sick terns, according to the Guardian.