More than 20 dead ibises at Lake Weeroona spark bird flu testing
Bendigo Wildlife Rescue found 20+ dead ibises and 4+ sick birds at Lake Weeroona; cause unknown but being tested for H5N1.
Bendigo Wildlife Rescue discovered a mass death of ibises at Lake Weeroona on Wednesday after a member of the public reported a sick bird. A volunteer investigating found 15 dead birds initially, with more discovered afterwards, totalling more than 20.
At least 4 additional sick birds were found and euthanised as they could not be rehabilitated. The cause of death is unknown.
The birds have been sent to Agriculture Victoria for testing, including for H5N1 bird flu. The rescue director said they cannot yet confirm the cause.
It could also be botulism or poisoning. Residents are advised to avoid dead birds and report sightings to the animal disease hotline.
- More than 20
- Dead ibises found
- At least 4
- Sick birds euthanised
- Lake Weeroona, Bendigo
- Location
- 668 confirmed
- Bird flu cases in Australia
Why it mattersA mass bird death could signal an H5N1 outbreak; Australia has recorded 668 confirmed bird flu cases.
AustraliaVictorians should avoid touching dead birds and report them to the disease hotline to help track potential bird flu spread.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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