Bird flu's spread has Kangaroo Island on edge, after bushfires and the algal bloom
Kangaroo Island residents are concerned about the potential impact of H5N1 bird flu following mass bird deaths on nearby islands. Local authorities are considering a vaccination program to protect vulnerable species like little penguins.
Why it matters
The spread of bird flu poses a significant threat to biodiversity and local tourism economies, highlighting the urgency of environmental health interventions.
Kangaroo Island is home to several colonies of little penguins. ( Supplied: Kangaroo Island Landscape Board )
After mass bird deaths were detected in remote locations off Kangaroo Island, locals are bracing for further environmental and economic impact.
A penguin tour operator says while the population is currently strong, it would be "devastating if we start seeing massive losses to the colony".
She has expressed support for bird flu vaccination — a step the premier says is currently being considered.
Link copied Share Share article Kangaroo Island locals on the frontline against bird flu are fearful of further devastation, with the mayor saying he is "sick of bloody disasters".
It was yesterday revealed that three mass bird deaths believed to be linked to H5N1 and involving more than 1,000 crested terns had occurred on remote SA islands — including two off KI .
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