South Australian authorities are investigating the deaths of more than 80 greater crested terns found on Baudin Rocks amid fears of an H5 avian influenza outbreak.
Aerial surveillance identified 49 dead and 35 sick birds on the island, located about five kilometres off Cape Jaffa. Laboratory testing is underway, with the state’s Chief Veterinary Officer Skye Fruean saying it is highly likely the birds will test positive for the H5 strain.
South Australia has recorded 39 of Australia’s 53 confirmed H5 bird flu cases so far. Despite the outbreak, Australian Chief Veterinary Officer Beth Cookson said the risk to agriculture and public health remains low.
Experts have also warned the virus could spread to the endangered Australian sea lion population, particularly at Seal Bay on Kangaroo Island, which is home to around five per cent of the species worldwide. Wildlife specialists say past outbreaks in South America showed sea lions and fur seals are highly vulnerable to H5N1.
The South Australian government has temporarily suspended beach tours at Seal Bay to help protect marine wildlife, while authorities continue monitoring the outbreak. Officials said there is still no evidence the virus has spread to poultry or agricultural systems.