First Australian mass mortality event suspected as deadly bird flu virus rapidly escalates among native birds
- More than 80 dead and sick birds seen on rocks off the South Australian coast are suspected to be the first mass mortality event from the deadly H5N1 bird flu virus, only six weeks after the disease arrived in Australia.
- Authorities reported on Saturday that helicopter surveillance had revealed 49 dead greater crested terns on Baudin Rocks, near Robe, as well as 35 more sick terns.
- While some of the birds had been collected for testing, South Australia’s chief vet Skye Freuan said it was likely the first mass mortality event from the disease.
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- More than 80 dead and sick birds seen on rocks off the South Australian coast are suspected to be the first mass mortality event from the deadly H5N1 bird flu virus, only six weeks after the disease arrived in Australia.
- Authorities reported on Saturday that helicopter surveillance had revealed 49 dead greater crested terns on Baudin Rocks, near Robe, as well as 35 more sick terns.
- While some of the birds had been collected for testing, South Australia’s chief vet Skye Freuan said it was likely the first mass mortality event from the disease.
Sources: Guardian