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Bird Flu Threatens Beloved Seals in Victoria
26 Aug
Summary
- H5N1 bird flu has reached South Australia, with a fur seal testing positive.
- Southern elephant seals, like Portland's 'Sammy', are highly gregarious and vulnerable.
- Marine mammals are at very high risk due to close contact with infected birds.
The H5N1 bird flu virus has escalated its impact, moving from a severe outbreak among birds in Victoria, Australia, to affecting marine mammals. A recent positive case in a fur seal in Beachport, South Australia, has sparked significant concern, particularly for the well-known southern elephant seal, Sammy, who frequents Portland.
This particular seal has become a local attraction, and residents are worried about its exposure, especially since Sammy has been observed near birds suspected of succumbing to H5N1. Victoria has seen numerous bird deaths, with 17 confirmed events in various species since late July. The situation is distressing, with concerns about the virus spreading through scavengers consuming dead birds.
Experts highlight that seals and sea lions are particularly susceptible due to their social behavior, often lying in close contact and communicating through touch. Southern elephant seals, listed as vulnerable, and endangered Australian sea lions are considered at very high risk. Historical outbreaks, such as the one on Heard Island in 2025 and 2026 that killed thousands of pups, underscore the severity of this threat.
