07/08/2026
🦆 H5N1 Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) Update 🦆
The recent case of H5N1 avian influenza in a seagull means it’s more important than ever to protect our patients, our team, our wildlife and our community.
If you come across a sick or injured bird:
🐦 Do not touch or handle the bird.
👀 Observe from a safe distance if possible and look for signs such as respiratory illness, unusual behaviour, tremors, a twisted neck, swollen head or eye abnormalities.
📍 Note the location, time and the bird’s symptoms, and if safe to do so, take photos or videos without handling the bird.
📞 Contact the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline (1800 675 888) or WIRES (1300 094 737) for advice.
🏥 Our hospital’s current triage plan:
• We are continuing to assess and treat birds not showing signs of H5N1 on a case-by-case basis.
• We are not accepting seagulls, seabirds or migratory bird species at this time.
• Please call us before bringing any injured bird to the hospital so our team can provide instructions and prepare for your arrival.
• Due to staffing, we are unfortunately unable to accept injured birds on Wednesdays.
• We have established an outdoor triage area to safely assess avian patients while reducing the risk to our staff, patients and the community.
We understand how distressing it can be to find an injured bird, and we’re committed to continuing to provide care while following the latest biosecurity recommendations. Thank you for helping us protect both wildlife and our community. 💙🐦
