A second Greater Crested Tern has tested positive for H5 bird flu in the Wollongong Local Government Area.
Key points:
- A second Greater Crested Tern has tested positive for H5 avian influenza.
- The sick Tern was found at Port Kembla.
- Report sick or dead birds or other animals to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
Two cases of H5 bird flu have now been recorded in Wollongong.
A second greater crested tern was found on the jetty near the Port Kembla Southern Breakwater. It follows a positive case in the same species found near Windang boat ramp last week.
Lord Mayor of Wollongong Councillor Tania Brown said that it was not a surprise a second bird had tested positive but was upsetting.
“We are working closely with the Department of Primary Industry and Regional Development and other lead agencies on the management of bird flu in our Local Government Area,” she said.
“We know this is an evolving situation and we’re well aware that there are likely to be more cases of bird flu in our city over the coming months. It’s awful and upsetting.
“However, we’re doing what we can to manage the risk in our city. We’ve placed signage to indicate that an unwell bird was found in this location, and the advice remains the same: if you see sick or dead birds or other animals, do not touch them. Avoid contact. Record what you see. Report sick or dead birds or other animals to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.”
Image: Council has installed biosecurity signage around the Port Kembla Southern Breakwater.
Community members wanting to stay up to date on the latest information about H5 should visit the NSW Government’s dedicated webpage or Council’s dedicated webpage for local information.
“It’s important our community are aware of bird flu and the steps they can take to help keep wildlife safe,” Cr Brown said.
“Firstly, if you see sick or dead animals report them. Don’t feed wild birds and encourage them to congregate and be mindful of your own pets. Keep cats and dogs away from wild birds.
“We will continue to monitor the situation and share updates as circumstances evolve. It’s important we work together to protect our wildlife, our environment and keep our communities safe.”
