Bird flu detection training to be rolled out to SA conservation volunteers
South Australian conservation volunteers are receiving specialized training to identify and report cases of H5 bird flu in wildlife. This initiative aims to bolster surveillance efforts following confirmed detections in native seabirds.
Why it matters
Enhanced monitoring of avian influenza is critical for preventing the spread of the virus to domestic poultry and protecting biodiversity.
The H5 strain of bird flu was last week detected in a native seabird — a greater crested tern — for the first time. ( Supplied: Dr Meagan Dewar )
Conservation groups are partnering with government to deliver training to help observers identify potential cases of bird flu in SA.
Volunteers from BirdLife Australia, Birds SA and the state's Conservation Council can sign up for the training.
Possible H5 detections can be reported to the Emergency Animal Disease hotline, but volunteers are being urged to avoid contact with sick wildlife.
Link copied Share Share article Hawk-eyed citizen scientists will be trained in bird flu detection in South Australia to bolster frontline defences against the virus.
SA has so far recorded five confirmed cases of H5 bird flu — four in migratory giant petrels, and one last week in a greater crested tern, which is native to Australia .
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