Bird flu suspected after more than 1,000 birds found dead in SA, more deaths in Tasmania
South Australian authorities are investigating the deaths of over 1,000 crested terns, suspected to be caused by the H5N1 bird flu strain. Similar bird deaths have been reported in Tasmania, prompting a significant escalation in surveillance and testing efforts.
Why it matters
The mass mortality event represents a serious environmental and biosecurity concern, highlighting the spread of the H5N1 virus in wildlife populations.
Surveillance teams have discovered more than 1,000 dead crested terns, the premier said. ( ABC News: Carl Saville )
The deaths of more than 1,000 birds in South Australia and two dozen penguins in Tasmania have been linked to the spread of bird flu.
SA Premier Peter Malinauskas told parliament the crested terns had died in three mass mortalities on remote islands off the state's coast, and that they were "presumed" to have died from the H5N1 bird flu strain.
Authorities in Tasmania will conduct testing, after three crested terns and 28 penguins were found dead on the coast of King Island.
Link copied Share Share article South Australian authorities have identified three mass bird mortality events involving more than 1,000 crested terns, which are "presumed" to have died from H5N1 bird flu.
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