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Bird Flu Claims Endangered Australian Sea Lion
13 Sep
Summary
- First documented death of an endangered Australian sea lion from bird flu.
- Less than 10,000 Australian sea lions are estimated to remain globally.
- Bird flu's impact could be devastating, especially without a vaccine.
South Australia has confirmed the first death of an endangered Australian sea lion from H5 bird flu. This marks a critical development as fewer than 10,000 of these rare marine mammals are believed to remain globally, with most residing in South Australia.
The affected sea lion was discovered deceased at Seal Bay on Kangaroo Island, a major colony. While initially thought to be recovering from a shark attack, post-mortem analysis revealed that bird flu was the cause of death. This incident raises significant concerns for the species' already diminishing population.
Authorities are monitoring Seal Bay closely, where approximately 800 Australian sea lions reside. The species faces an annual population decline of 2%, even before the viral outbreak. Experts fear bird flu could have a devastating impact, similar to incidents elsewhere where populations saw reductions of 75% to 95%.
While a mammal vaccine for bird flu exists and has been trialled in cattle and monk seals overseas, South Australia is eager to participate in local trials. The H5 virus has previously caused catastrophic losses in pinniped populations in South America and sub-Antarctica.
