The H5N1 strain of avian influenza is spreading rapidly along the coast of southern Australia, killing thousands of wild birds and infecting marine mammals. Experts predict infected waterfowl will carry the virus to inland wetlands. Densely packed colonies on Macquarie Island are also considered highly exposed.
Within weeks, vast flocks of shearwaters returning from migration may be infected, and scavengers could spread the virus to urban wildlife. While bird flu has not caused extinctions elsewhere, rigorous monitoring of population losses, breeding success, and recovery is deemed crucial to protect vulnerable species and guide conservation efforts.
Source: Down To Earth