Wildlife under threat as bird flu spreads among natives in a second state
SBS News
•Sat, 8 Aug 2026 08:54:23 +0000
📰 What Happened
NSW recorded its first cases of the H5 bird flu strain in native birds, after two greater crested terns tested positive — one near Narooma and one near Wentworth. This makes NSW the second state with local transmission among native wildlife, bringing the national tally to 215 confirmed or presumed detections. The poultry industry remains clear of the virus so far, and officials say more cases are virtually inevitable.
🔍 The Backstory
The highly pathogenic H5 avian influenza strain has been spreading across Australia, raising fears for native bird populations that have no immunity. Environment Minister Penny Sharpe said the country had been preparing for this scenario and remains equipped to respond.
🎯 Why It Matters
An outbreak in native wildlife threatens vulnerable species and could spill into commercial poultry, with consequences for food supply and conservation. The confirmation in a second state signals the virus is becoming entrenched in Australia's environment rather than fading.
NSW recorded its first cases of the H5 bird flu strain in native birds, after two greater crested terns tested positive — one near Narooma and one near Wentworth. This makes NSW the second state with local transmission among native wildlife, bringing the national tally to 215 confirmed or presumed detections. The poultry industry remains clear of the virus so far, and officials say more cases are virtually inevitable.
The highly pathogenic H5 avian influenza strain has been spreading across Australia, raising fears for native bird populations that have no immunity. Environment Minister Penny Sharpe said the country had been preparing for this scenario and remains equipped to respond.
An outbreak in native wildlife threatens vulnerable species and could spill into commercial poultry, with consequences for food supply and conservation. The confirmation in a second state signals the virus is becoming entrenched in Australia's environment rather than fading.