27/06/2026
Here is an update on the bird that was rescued yesterday.
Our team is currently caring for a beautiful Giant Petrel after it was rescued yesterday by our friends at Western Australian Seabird Rescue in Halls Head and transported to the WA Wildlife Hospital.
The bird presented weak and exhausted but, encouragingly, showed no overt respiratory or neurological symptoms on admission. Given the recent H5 bird flu detection in pelagic birds along Western Australia's southern coastline, however, the wildlife rehabilitation community remains on high alert.
As part of our ongoing wildlife disease surveillance work, our veterinary team liaised with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) and collected samples for H5 bird flu testing. While the bird's clinical presentation is not strongly suggestive of H5 bird flu, given the recent detections along the southern coast, it is important that we confirm this bird is not carrying the virus before continuing its rehabilitation. These samples also contribute to statewide surveillance efforts, helping authorities monitor the health of Western Australia's wild bird populations. We expect results in the coming days.
At this stage, WA Wildlife Hospital remains open and continues to accept wildlife admissions, with enhanced biosecurity measures now in place to help protect our staff, volunteers, resident animals and wildlife patients.
A huge thank you to Western Australian Seabird Rescue and everyone in our wildlife community who continue to do what they can to help our wild birds during this challenging time. Your dedication is more important than ever.
https://wawildlife.org.au/support/bequests-and-donations/
