Threat to thousands of Australian birds and animals outlined as bird flu spreads
The Australian government has identified over 2,000 native species at risk from the H5 bird flu strain. While vaccines are being tested, officials state they are not currently feasible for wild populations, leaving many endangered species vulnerable to severe population declines.
Why it matters
This assessment highlights a significant ecological threat to biodiversity, potentially leading to the extinction of several critically endangered bird species.
The Herald petrel is among five bird species that are potentially unable to survive the H5 bird flu. ( Supplied: Queensland government )
Australia is bracing for severe reductions to some bird and mammal populations, and there are fears some will not survive if they contract bird flu.
Federal government analysis has ranked the threat level of more than 2,000 native birds and animals.
Vaccines are being trialled, but the environment minister says they are not feasible in wild bird populations.
Link copied Share Share article Several seabird species could be wiped out if bird flu continues to spread, according to a review of Australian animals' vulnerability to the disease.
More than 2,000 native birds and mammals have been scored on how likely they are to survive the spread of the H5 strain of bird flu.
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