Up to 100 native birds at Cleland Wildlife Park will begin receiving vaccinations against H5 bird flu as South Australia works to protect some of its most vulnerable species from the disease.
The vaccination program begins at the popular Adelaide Hills wildlife park tomorrow, initially covering more than 30 native bird species.
Cleland staff have spent this week capturing birds across the park, including curlews and royal spoonbills, before transferring them into dedicated quarantine facilities ahead of their vaccinations.
Each bird will receive two doses of the vaccine, administered three to four weeks apart, with their health monitored throughout the process. Once the vaccination program is complete, the birds will be released back into their usual habitats.
A number of threatened species have been approved for vaccination, including orange-bellied parrots, regent honeyeaters, regent parrots and red-tailed black cockatoos.
Magpie geese and Australian pelicans are also among the species included.
Minister for Climate, Environment and Water Emily Bourke said the program was designed to provide another layer of protection for some of South Australia’s most vulnerable birds.
“Whilst we know there is no one single action that can prevent the spread of H5 bird flu, it is hoped that vaccination, combined with our strong biosecurity measures and resilience building preparedness, we can give these species the best chance possible,” Minister Bourke said.
“This program provides an additional layer of protection for threatened native birds and reflects our commitment to safeguarding South Australia’s unique biodiversity.”
Species have been prioritised based on factors including their conservation status, susceptibility to bird flu and whether they can be vaccinated safely and effectively.
The program has received approvals under the national framework allowing targeted vaccination of priority native bird species that are captive or managed.
Department for Environment Conservation and Wildlife Director Lisien Loan said teams had spent weeks preparing for the rollout.
“By vaccinating priority bird species now, we’re strengthening our ability to protect at-risk bird populations in a contained area and support their long-term survival,” she said.
There have been no H5 bird flu detections in South Australian poultry or other livestock, while the risk to human health remains low.
South Australians are being urged to continue reporting sick or dead birds and other wildlife and to avoid touching them.
Sightings can be reported to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
