“Wait and see”: Farmers hold breath after bird flu detection

In the wake of the discovery of bird flu at Hawks Nest on Saturday, hobby farmers Jade and Roy Mitchell are concerned about the future of the poultry and waterfowl show circuit. 

Operating from Mitchell Farm at Bonville, the couple show a range of birds at agricultural shows across the Mid North Coast with their daughters Estelle and Macey. 

Jade said it was a case of “wait and see” in terms of the farm’s bird flu response, but won’t be surprised if poultry owners pull back from the show circuit.

• “I don't know whether I will want to go and show the birds, depending on how many more cases appear in the coming months. We don't want to put any of our birds at risk. Even some people decided not to show this season because of the worry of bird flu.” 

The detection: The CSIRO confirmed the detection of the virus, officially known as H5 high pathogenicity avian influenza, on Saturday, in a giant petrel near Hawks Nest.

Single case: The NSW Government said there is “no evidence” of spread to local wildlife, commercial poultry flocks, or any other birds in NSW.

There are four confirmed cases in Western Australia and one in South Australia.

While H5 bird flu can be fatal to birds and some other animals including cats and dogs, the government says the risk to human health “remains low”.

How it spreads: Bird flu is generally spread through direct contact with infected animals or their products, saliva, nasal secretions or droppings.

Indirect contamination can also occur through dust, surfaces, water or equipment used around birds.

Government response: The NSW Government has implemented its response plan, recommending heightened biosecurity measures and the housing of free-range poultry. 

It has also ramped up drone and on-ground surveillance in high risk areas. 

NSW Chief Veterinary Officer Jo Coombe said the confirmed case at Hawks Nest was detected as a result of surveillance activities, and demonstrates the state’s biosecurity system is “operating effectively”.

Broader impacts: Aside from birds and family pets, marine mammals such as seals and sea lions can be impacted too.

Researchers recently reported a “mass mortality” of southern elephant seals on Heard Island, 4,100km south-west of Perth, after a confirmed detection of bird flu.

Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary managing director Tiga Cross said the risk is “particularly concerning” for endangered Australian sea lions, however fur seals off the East Coast may also be susceptible.

• “[They could] potentially play a role in how the disease moves through marine environments,” she said.

Reporting protocol: People are advised to avoid contact with any dead or ill birds.

Unusual cases of dead or ill birds should be reported (photo and video is useful) immediately to the Emergency Animal Disease (EAD) Hotline on 1800 675 888.

Image credit: The Mitchell Farm.