Scientists confirm spread of bird flu in Antarctica

Scientists examining the spread of high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAIV H5) infections on Antarctic wildlife have found the virus has spread in Antarctica.

A team of international scientists have been on the southern continent examining the presence and impact of bird flu on wildlife when they made the discovery in the Northern Weddell Sea area.

HPAIV H5 was first detected in South America at the end of 2022 and was confirmed in Antarctica in February this year.

The most affected species on the continent was skuas birds, with scientists concerned their high mortality levels may have long-term consequences for their survival.

Since 2020, the unprecedented spread of avian influenza has caused significant mortalities of wild birds and mammals on an almost global scale.

Scientists hold grave concerns about the effect of avian influenza on wildlife populations in Antarctica particularly for species that are near threatened to critically endangered.

Federation University expedition leader Meagan Dewar said setting up surveillance on Antarctica could help monitor the impact of HPAIV H5 in coming years.

The dangerous strain of avian influenza had wreaked havoc on every continent except Australia and the rest of Oceania.

Millions of wild birds around the world have been affected, with about 650,000 wild birds reported dead in South America alone.

Doherty Institute senior research fellow Dr Michelle Wille said it was only a matter of time before the virus arrived in Australia, with experts predicting the highest risk period between August and November when millions of migratory birds arrived from northern Asia.

“Penguins in Antarctica, pelicans in Peru, sea lions in South America and dairy cows in the United States have all been hit by fast-spreading and often lethal high pathogenicity avian influenza, known as HPAI H5N1,” Dr Wille said.

“It’s since been found in penguins, elephant seals, fur seals and Antarctic terns.

“This virus is threatening the survival of entire species.

“Some populations of birds and even entire species may never recover.”

Dr Wile said when the virus did arrive black swans would be highly susceptible.

“Overseas, pelicans, cormorants, penguins, gannets, terns, gulls and seals have been amongst the hardest hit,” she said.

“This spring, please look out for sick or dead wild birds or marine mammals and report it. Surveillance could help us manage the virus.”