Home / Environment / Bird Flu Hits Antarctic Penguins: First Case in Australian Territory
Bird Flu Hits Antarctic Penguins: First Case in Australian Territory
17 Feb
Summary
- Gentoo penguins on Heard Island are the first birds with H5N1 in an Australian territory.
- The virus was previously confirmed in seals on the sub-Antarctic island in November 2025.
- Experts warn H5N1 poses a significant threat to unique Australian bird species.
The H5N1 bird flu virus has infected gentoo penguins on Heard Island, an Australian territory, marking the first confirmed avian case in the region. This development follows the virus's detection in southern elephant seals on the same island in November 2025. Further samples collected by scientists confirmed the spread to fur seals and penguins.
BirdLife Australia's vice-president, Prof Hugh Possingham, described the spread to birds as "a very concerning development," emphasizing the potential threat to species found nowhere else on Earth. He highlighted concerns that government protections for wildlife are insufficient.
In response, the federal government stated that Australia remains free of H5N1 and that detections on Heard Island do not significantly increase the risk. Agriculture Minister Julie Collins noted the investment of over $100 million in preparedness and response capabilities.
The H5N1 virus entered the Antarctic during the 2023-24 season, spreading to various sub-Antarctic islands. Experts believe the virus could theoretically reach Australian and New Zealand sub-Antarctic islands, posing a future risk to the mainland. Surveillance and preparedness are deemed extremely important.
