H5N1 Avian Flu Reaches Australian Seabirds, Posing Existential Threat to Native Ducks
Key Developments
Two migratory seabirds—a northern giant petrel and a brown skua—have tested positive for the H5N1 avian influenza strain near Esperance, Western Australia. A further case has been confirmed in South Australia.
Birdlife Australia states that H5N1 represents an existential threat to Australia's native duck population, which already faces habitat degradation, urban sprawl, and hunting pressure.
Background on Duck Populations
None of Australia's 15 duck species are classified as threatened nationally, but several are listed as threatened at the state level:
- Blue-billed duck and freckled duck (endangered in Victoria)
- Musk duck and blue-winged shoveller (vulnerable in Victoria)
The East Australian Waterbird Survey, coordinated by UNSW's Centre for Ecosystems Science, reports a stark long-term decline over 40 years. The number of ducks observed fell from close to 900,000 in 1984 to fewer than 100,000 in 2022, with only a slight increase recorded since 2023.
Expert Statements
Birdlife Australia ecologist Ryan Kilgower said that the reduction in refuge wetlands due to human encroachment increases the risk if infection takes hold. "Species that do not adapt to environmental change could become confined to remaining refuges, and if bird flu enters those refuges, those species could be lost."
Birdwatcher and animal rescue volunteer David Mould stated that while habitat loss and climate change are the biggest threats, duck hunting adds an extra burden. He cited government estimates of over 550,000 ducks killed annually from recreational shooting, with an additional 20% wounded and later dying.
Duck Hunting Regulations
- Duck hunting is permanently banned in New South Wales, Queensland, Western Australia, and the ACT.
- Recreational hunting is permitted in Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania, and the Northern Territory during limited open seasons.
- Some native species (musk duck, freckled duck, blue-winged shoveller in Victoria) remain protected even in states where hunting is allowed. However, Mould stated that many protected ducks are killed each year by inexperienced or lazy hunters.