We are pleased to advise that samples collected from Pelican Beach have been tested by DPI vets and the results have come back negative for Avian Influenza.
We will continue to follow protocols currently in place and will keep you updated with any changes.
Although Shearwaters often present with symptoms of exhaustion when they arrive on our beaches, the H5N1 strain of Avian Influenza is a new threat and we must take great care.
Please continue to follow our previous advice from our previous post. Here it is again, listed below.
Always keep dogs leashed and away from sick or dead birds.
Make yourself aware of the signs of or species likely affected –
- 5 or more sick or dead birds any species.
- Marine, sea or pelagic bird, migratory or nomadic
- Neurological signs in birds: incoordination, tremors, swimming in circles, twisted necks or other abnormal posture, inability to stand or fly
- Respiratory signs in birds: difficulty breathing, coughing or sneezing, swelling around the head, neck and eyes, cloudiness or change in colour of the
- Gastrointestinal signs in birds: diarrhoea, dirty
- Sudden death of a bird without clear cause
- Marine or scavenger mammal signs: incoordination and tremors, seizures, difficulty breathing, nasal discharge, drooling, death, including the potential for mass mortality events.
- Found on beaches
If you witness any of the above please contact the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
Stay up to date with the latest from Wildlife Health Australia, Australian Government, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and Australian Department of Health and Aged Care.
If avian influenza emerges in Australia, outbreak details will be hosted on the Australian Government outbreaks portal (no information here currently).
Wildlife A.R.C. is a registered charity and all work performed by our members is voluntary. We rely on donations to provide rescue and care services for wildlife 365 days a year. All donations go directly toward essentials like food, vet care, and medications.
(Photo credit: © Sam Chatfield, Wildlife A.R.C.)
