Perth Zoo Builds Black Cockatoo Hospital Amid Bird Flu Threat

Perth Zoo is establishing a new black cockatoo hospital at its South Perth location, with an initial investment of at least $500,000. This proactive measure is in response to the looming threat of the H5 avian influenza virus to Western Australia's wildlife.

The new facility will feature four transportable buildings designated for "triage and care" of black cockatoos. This strategic infrastructure aims to bolster the zoo's capacity to respond effectively should the bird flu impact native species.

The initiative includes creating a separate hospital to increase treatment capacity and maintain biosecurity. This separation is vital to reduce potential disease transmission between wild bird patients and the zoo's resident animal population.

Australia has recorded over 600 cases of H5 flu nationally since June, though Western Australia has had a limited number of confirmed cases. The virus has had devastating global impacts, including significant mortality in wildlife populations elsewhere.

Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn emphasized the ongoing need for vigilance and preparedness, noting that bird flu is expected to remain an endemic wildlife disease. The new hospital supports these ongoing efforts and the zoo's existing vaccination trials for black cockatoos.