Bird flu could wipe out endangered sea lion population

Endangered Australian sea lions are under threat from a deadly bird flu strain that could cause a devastating mortality event, according to experts. The first confirmed case of H5 bird flu in a mammal was detected in a long-nosed fur seal on Sunday, believed to have contracted the virus from wild birds. South Australia's Department of Primary Industries and Regions has recorded five suspected H5 bird flu events, including greater crested terns and a white-fronted tern.

The Pages Conservation Park, home to the endangered sea lions, experienced a mass mortality event of birds last week, likely due to the H5 strain. Ecologist Jane Younger warned that a similar mass die-off could occur if the virus reaches the endangered species, with Australia expecting a "mass die-off" of marine mammals, similar to outbreaks in South America and Heard Island.

There is currently no vaccine available for marine mammals, but a trial is underway in North America, and the Australian government is investigating the research. Authorities have vaccinated at-risk species, such as little penguins on Victoria's Phillip Island, in an attempt to protect the 5,000-strong colony.