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Little Penguin Dies From Bird Flu as Case Numbers Grow
Authorities said the rollout will cover more than 5,000 little penguins and will not stop the virus from circulating.
- On Saturday, authorities confirmed a little penguin died of H5N1 bird flu on Phillip Island, bringing the total number of bird flu cases in Victoria to 74.
- Chief biodiversity officer James Todd warned the detections pose significant risk because affected areas host at-risk species congregating for the upcoming spring breeding season.
- Starting Monday, Agriculture Victoria will vaccinate more than 5000 little penguins on Phillip Island and in St Kilda, a program officials said will "help reduce its impact alongside existing biosecurity, surveillance and wildlife response measures."
- Vaccinating each bird twice presents logistical challenges, but Dr Graeme Cooke noted current population levels make this "a good time to start vaccinating," while Phillip Island Nature Park will remain open throughout the rollout.
- Authorities identified additional infections in Lakes Entrance and Dromana, underscoring the virus's spread, as Chief biodiversity officer James Todd stated, "We are very concerned about this detection, but it does represent early surveillance and early vigilance.
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Sydney Morning HeraldReposted by 
Brisbane Times
Brisbane TimesBird Flu found in Victorian Penguin
Bird flu has been found in one of Victoria's famous penguins, experts say.
·North Sydney, Australia
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Total News Sources10
Leaning Left4Leaning Right4Center2Last UpdatedBias Distribution40% Left, 40% Right
Bias Distribution
- 40% of the sources lean Left, 40% of the sources lean Right
40% Right
L 40%
C 20%
R 40%
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