Bird Flu

H5 bird flu can only be confirmed by testing at government laboratories.

Animals with bird flu may look sick or may die suddenly with no visible signs. Possible signs include:

Wild birds

• difficulty standing, walking or flying
• a droopy or puffed-up appearance
• breathing problems, such as panting or sneezing
• an unusual head or neck posture
• sudden death, especially when several birds are affected.

Poultry and pet birds

• a sudden drop in egg production
• lethargy or not eating or drinking
• a swollen head or limbs
• bruising on the comb, feet or skin
• breathing problems or a runny nose
• sudden death.

Mammals

• weakness or tiredness
• difficulty walking or breathing
• seizures, tremors or walking in circles
• drooling or a runny nose
• sudden illness or death.

NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development will assess your report. It may contact you for more information. Not every report needs an on-site visit, collection or testing.

Bird flu can only be confirmed through laboratory testing by a veterinarian or government animal health officer.

Short-tailed shearwaters, also called muttonbirds, sometimes wash up on the New South Wales coast during their annual migration. This can be a natural occurrence.

Although these birds may not be affected by bird flu, reporting sick or dead birds helps authorities monitor bird health and better understand what is happening across the region.

Remember, do not handle dead birds, and keep pets and children away from carcasses.

The collection and disposal of carcasses is the responsibility of each respective landholder and/or land manager. It's important to avoid contact where possible, and use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and practice sound hygiene when moving carcasses at any time.

If you find sick or dead wild birds or other wildlife on private property, first report it on the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888 or use the online reporting portal: Report sick or dead wild birds

For options for dealing with dead wild birds on private land, visit Disposal of bird carcasses from public and private land: General public

Interactions between our pets and wildlife may help H5 bird flu spread. H5 bird flu can spread quickly in animals, with serious impacts on poultry, wild birds and even some mammals such as seals, cats and dogs.

Keep pets away from sick or dead birds and other wildlife. Keep dogs on a lead and prevent cats from roaming where possible.

If your pet becomes unwell after contact with wildlife, contact a veterinarian.

Find H5 bird flu information for pet owners on the NSW Government website: H5 bird flu information for pet owners | NSW Government

If you own backyard chickens, pet birds, aviary birds or other captive birds, there are simple steps you can take to help protect them from bird flu.

Visit the NSW Government website for information and advice on caring for and protecting your birds: H5 bird flu information for bird owners and keepers | NSW Government