Federal environmental analysis has identified more than 150 native Australian bird species at “very high risk” of extinction or major population decline should the H5N1 bird flu strain spread across the continent. While Western Australia authorities confirmed the virus was detected in a brown skua and a giant petrel near Esperance, no further spread has been recorded among wild populations to date. Scientists warn that Australia’s unique biodiversity, which evolved in isolation, lacks the natural immunity observed in Northern Hemisphere species, making the potential impact of the virus difficult to predict.
Which species face the greatest threat from H5N1?
The federal government’s risk assessment highlights over 150 bird species and 10 mammal species as being at critical risk. According to a federal environment department spokesperson, the list includes iconic and endangered animals such as the red goshawk, fairy tern, plains-wanderer, shy albatross, and the western hooded plover. Migratory birds, including the short-tailed shearwater—which travels 15,000km from the Arctic Circle—are considered particularly vulnerable due to their long-range movements.
Among mammals, the endangered Australian sea-lion, the subantarctic fur seal, and the Australian fur seal have been flagged as high-priority, alongside the Tasmanian devil and eastern quoll. Chris Purnell of BirdLife Australia notes that for these endemic species, there is no secondary population outside the country that could facilitate recovery if local numbers collapse.
Black swans are being monitored as a “sentinel species.” Because they lack specific immune genes to detect the virus, their health acts as an early warning system for the presence of H5N1 in an area.
Why are black swans uniquely vulnerable?
Research published in 2023 indicates that Western Australia’s state emblem, the black swan, is highly susceptible to H5N1 due to a specific genetic deficiency. Professor Kirsty Short of the University of Queensland, a lead author of the study, explains that black swans fail to detect the virus properly. Instead of a controlled immune response, these birds suffer from an out-of-control, pro-inflammatory reaction when infected.
While the species as a whole is unlikely to face extinction due to its widespread breeding populations, Professor Short warns that localized populations could experience mass mortality events. This contrast in vulnerability—between species that congregate in dense groups like pelicans and those with broader distributions—is a primary focus of current government response planning.
How are authorities preparing for a potential outbreak?
State and federal agencies have spent several years developing over 100 response plans covering specific habitats and species. According to WA Agriculture Minister Jackie Jarvis, current surveillance efforts remain active, with officials testing sick or dead wildlife reported by the public. To date, these tests have returned negative results for the virus.
The federal government is relying on a multi-tiered risk analysis to prioritize conservation efforts. Because most existing avian influenza research is based on Northern Hemisphere wildlife, Australian scientists are currently working to bridge the knowledge gap regarding how unique native species interact with the virus. The goal is to identify which habitats require immediate protective measures should the virus move beyond its initial point of detection.
If you encounter sick or dead wild birds, do not handle them. Report the sighting to local wildlife authorities or your state’s agricultural department immediately to assist in ongoing surveillance efforts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can H5N1 bird flu spread to humans?
While H5N1 is primarily an avian disease, it has infected mammals globally. Australian authorities are monitoring the situation to prevent further cross-species transmission, but current focus remains on protecting native wildlife populations.
Is the bird flu currently widespread in Australia?
No. As of the latest update from Western Australian authorities, the virus has only been detected in two individual birds near Esperance, with no evidence of spread into other wild populations.
What should I do if I find a dead bird?
Do not touch the animal. Report the incident to the Emergency Animal Disease Watch Hotline or your local Department of Primary Industries to ensure the bird is tested by professionals.
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