Australia Reports First Mass Bird Flu Deaths in Greater Crested Terns

Helicopter surveillance conducted on Saturday over Baudin Rocks near Robe on the South Australian coast identified a mass die‑off of greater crested terns, with 49 birds found dead and an additional 35 appearing sick. Authorities said the birds are suspected to be the first large‑scale mortality event linked to the highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus, which was first detected in Australia just six weeks earlier. The tally of more than 80 affected birds on the rocky outcrop marks a rapid escalation of the virus’s impact on native wildlife.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development has launched a coordinated response, including the collection of samples for laboratory confirmation and the implementation of biosecurity measures to prevent further spread. Officials are monitoring nearby colonies and advising the public to avoid contact with the birds. The incident underscores the ongoing challenge of containing H5N1 as it moves through Australian bird populations.