Bird flu kills more than 75% of baby seals on remote Australian island, study finds

The H5N1 strain of bird flu has devastated seal pup populations on Australia's remote Heard Island, killing more than 75% of the southern elephant seal pups. Scientists estimate that out of 17,000 pups, approximately 13,359 died since August last year. This grim discovery was made through drone surveys and ground visits conducted in October and January.

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These observations of H5 bird flu at Heard Island and McDonald Island are the first detection in an Australian external territory and show the continued eastward movement of the virus around the sub-Antarctic.

Beyond the seals, the virus has also affected penguin populations, with higher than expected deaths observed in king and gentoo penguins. While Australia is currently the only continent without confirmed H5N1 cases in birds, this finding in its external territory is a significant alert. The research, published in the scientific journal BioRxiv, is yet to undergo peer review.

Lead author wildlife biologist Dr. Julie McInnes stated that these observations are the first detection of H5N1 bird flu in an Australian external territory. She noted that the findings mirror patterns seen on other sub-Antarctic islands, where elephant seals have been particularly vulnerable. The mortality rate among the pups may even be an underestimate, as deaths were ongoing during the final surveys, with one area reporting a 97% mortality rate.

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Our results show a similar pattern to other sub-Antarctic islands, such as South Georgia, where elephant seals have been hardest hit.

Environment Minister Murray Watt described the seal deaths as "sobering," emphasizing the need for Australia to remain vigilant and prepared for potential incursions of the virus onto the mainland. Scientists suspect the virus was introduced to the islands by migrating birds from the nearby French-owned Crozet Islands. The Australian Antarctic Program is involved in monitoring and response efforts.

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We must be realistic about the likelihood of an incursion here, and plan accordingly.