Bat Rescue WA

A message to our community regarding bird admissions and H5 Bird Flu.

We've recently become aware of some confusion and misinformation circulating within the veterinary community regarding the management of wild birds during the H5 Bird Flu response. Specifically, some people have been left with the impression that WA Wildlife recommends euthanasing all wild birds.

This is not WA Wildlife's approach.

WA Wildlife, along with the majority of the wildlife rehabilitation community, continue to assess birds on a case-by-case basis. At this stage, since there have been no recorded community cases of H5N1 in WA, birds can still be successfully treated, rehabilitated and returned to the wild, and we remain committed to providing that care wherever it is safe and appropriate to do so.

To protect our staff, volunteers and wildlife patients, we have strengthened our biosecurity procedures. This includes the use of P2 masks, gloves and other personal protective equipment when handling birds, with additional precautions for higher-risk species such as pelagic seabirds.

As the situation evolves, veterinary clinics and wildlife hospitals may implement different biosecurity measures depending on their facilities, staffing and risk assessments. WA Wildlife will continue to work closely with government agencies and adapt our procedures in line with the latest scientific evidence and official advice.

Thank you to everyone who continues to report sick and injured wildlife. Your vigilance is helping protect both wildlife and our community.

If you find a sick or injured bird, please do not handle it but contact WA Wildlife or your local wildlife rehabilitation organisation for assistance.

Our fuel costs have increased significantly as our ambulance is now on the road 8-10 hours each day picking up sick and injured birds. If you want to support our response please donate here:

https://wawildlife.org.au/support/bequests-and-donations/