Hundreds of pelicans found dead in outback NSW
Bird flu is ruled out as the cause of the deaths of hundreds of pelicans discovered by an ecologist at the Menindee Lakes.
In outback New South Wales, hundreds of pelicans were found dead at Lake Cawndilla, with the cause of their sudden deaths still unclear. Ecologist Damien Cook discovered the 400 dead baby and juvenile pelicans while kayaking earlier this month. Bird flu tests returned negative results, ruling out the possibility of H5N1 avian influenza.
Ecologist Damien Cook expressed shock and distress over the sudden collapse of the young pelicans. NSW Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer Rhys Powell confirmed the birds were not infected, but the cause of their deaths will be investigated over the next week or two. The investigation may involve post-mortems to detect any disease markers.
BirdLife Australia's wetland and migratory shorebird project manager, Chris Purnell, was relieved that H5 was ruled out as the cause of death but remained concerned about the earlier positive detection at Wentworth and the potential for the virus to spread further west. The federal government is rolling out a vaccine against the deadly flu, but wild birds will not be prioritized due to the requirement of two vaccine doses.
Authorities urge people to avoid contact with dead or sick birds, report sightings to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline, and take photos if possible.
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