Bird flu detected in inland NSW, on the Murray Darling Basin

New South Wales has confirmed its first inland cases of H5 bird flu, with detections in two local birds, one found near Wentworth on the vital Murray-Darling Basin. This development has prompted warnings from experts about the potential for the virus to spread among inland bird colonies, particularly ahead of the spring breeding season.

Jack Gough, chief executive of the Invasive Species Council, stated that the detection should be a wake-up call for governments. He highlighted that birds in the Murray-Darling Basin are already under severe stress from feral animals, insufficient water for wetlands, and habitat loss. The addition of a deadly disease like bird flu presents a significant new threat to these vulnerable populations.

Samples from two deceased greater crested terns in NSW tested positive. Nationally, Australia has recorded a total of 215 H5 bird flu cases as of Saturday. South Australia leads with 147 confirmed cases, while Victoria has reported 10 positive cases. The spread of the virus underscores the ongoing challenges in managing wildlife health and environmental pressures across the continent.

“

That should be ringing alarm bells for governments because it suggests it could soon be spreading among inland bird colonies ahead of spring breeding season. Birds in the Murray-Darling basin are already in decline due to feral animals, insufficient water to critical wetlands and the loss of habitat - now they have a deadly disease to contend with.