H5 bird flu surveillance takes flight over Barkly Tablelands
The Northern Territory remains free of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5 bird flu), despite detections of the disease in wild birds and other wildlife elsewhere in Australia.
As part of ongoing preparedness activities, the Department of Lands, Planning and Environment recently conducted a 5-day waterbird surveillance program of wetlands in the Barkly Tableland.
In wet years the Barkly Tableland can contain a significant network of large temporary lakes, swamps and waterholes that form a key natural feature of the Barkly Tableland and provide important habitat for large numbers of migratory and resident waterbirds.
Surveillance of wild bird populations is a critical component of the Territory's bird flu preparedness and early detection efforts.
The team used a combination of helicopter-based aerial surveys to assess bird numbers of the large wetlands and ground-based surveys to identify waterbird species. They also monitored for abnormal symptoms and unusual wildlife mortality events to monitor for signs of H5 bird flu and other biosecurity threats.
The Department of Lands, Planning and Environment is a key partner in the Northern Territory's bird flu cross-agency Incident Management Team led by the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, working alongside government agencies and national surveillance programs to help protect the Territory's wildlife, livestock industries and communities.
Community members are encouraged to report multiple sick or dead wild birds and other wildlife.
To report suspected cases, call the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888 or submit an online report.
Remember: Avoid. Record. Report.
