South Australian authorities are investigating a mass mortality event involving native seabirds after dead and sick terns are found off the state’s south-east coast. Multiple reports say more than 80 birds have been observed in the event area, with helicopter surveillance used to assess the scale. The suspected species affected includes greater crested terns, found on rocks at Baudin Rocks near Robe.
Authorities report that on Saturday, surveillance identified dozens of dead terns and additional sick birds at the site. The event is being treated as a possible first Australian mass mortality caused by H5N1 bird flu, with testing under way to confirm the presence of the virus and assess how widely it may be spreading among native birds.
The Guardian reports the detection and spread occur within weeks of the disease arriving in Australia, while ABC Australia notes that officials have begun testing after the discovery of dead and sick birds. Results of the testing are expected to guide further public health and wildlife response measures.
