H5 bird flu has been detected in a Hutton’s shearwater at Corindi, north of Coffs Harbour.
However, the government says there are no signs of a mass mortality in the area, or anywhere else in NSW.
State of play: Across NSW, 20 bird flu events have been recorded. An “event” can involve more than one bird being detected with the virus. Nationally there have been 468 events.
The Corindi detection is the first in a shearwater bird in NSW.
Confirmed cases have also been recorded in recent days in greater crested terns at Port Kembla and Warriewood on Sydney’s Northern Beaches.
Measuring risk: To date, bird flu has not been detected in commercial poultry flocks, captive birds or any other birds native to NSW.
The state says the risk to human health remains low.
Protect the pets: Agriculture minister Tara Moriarty said the state’s focus is on “preparedness, surveillance and responding to events quickly”.
“Now is the time for everyone who has backyard chickens or pet birds in aviaries to take precautionary steps to ensure there are no interactions between their chooks and pets with wild birds,” Moriarty said.
“The Government also recommends people be careful with their dogs when walking on beaches or parks and ensure they don’t eat carcasses or chase wild birds.”
Hard to control: Environment minister Penny Sharpe said “no government policy can stop this virus from spreading through our wild bird populations”.
“What we can do to support our wildlife is vaccinate insurance populations, protect their habitat and eliminate invasive species,” she said.
Report it: If you see sick or dead birds, marine mammals or other wildlife showing signs of H5 bird flu, reports can be made here or via the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
Image: NZ Department of Conservation.