Report sick or dead wild birds and wildlife
Please report clusters of 5 or more sick or dead wild birds of any species, anywhere in Victoria.
Report even one sick or dead:
- wild seabird, waterbird, shorebird or bird of prey
- marine mammal (e.g. seal, dolphin).
Your report helps us to understand the spread of H5 bird flu across the state. Accurate reports help us respond quickly where necessary.
To report sick or dead poultry or livestock please call the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline immediately on 1800 675 888.
High pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) is a highly contagious viral disease that can cause severe illness and death in birds.
There are many subtypes of avian influenza, but HPAI H5N1 (also referred to as H5 bird flu) is of concern for poultry, wild birds and a range of native wildlife (such as quolls, seals and dolphins).
The most common presentation of H5 bird flu in wild birds and wildlife is sudden death.
Signs of bird flu
- unable to stand, walk, or fly properly
- ruffled feathers, depression, closed eyes
- droopy or puffed-up appearance
- breathing problems, including panting, coughing or sneezing
- diarrhoea
- twisted neck or unusual head posture
- swollen head, neck or eyes
- lack of coordination, tremors or swimming in circles
- sudden death, especially in large numbers
Reporting suspected cases
If you find sick or dead wild birds or wildlife with signs of H5 bird flu:
- AVOID contact with sick or dead wild birds or wildlife and their environment
- RECORD what you see
- REPORT, to the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action by using this form.
- or calling the Emergency Animal Disease hotline 1800 675 888 in line with the guidance below.
Report clusters (5 or more) of sick or dead wild birds of any species, anywhere in Victoria.
Report even one sick or dead:
- wild seabird, waterbird, shorebird or bird of prey (e.g. eagles, hawks)
- marine mammal (e.g. seal, sea lion, dolphin).
DEECA will assess each report and decide if testing is needed.
To report sick or dead livestock, commercial poultry or pet birds, please call the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline immediately on 1800 675 888.
If you are not in Victoria and wish to report sick or dead birds, or wildlife deaths, you can still contact the Emergency Animal Disease hotline on 1800 675 888. This number will take you to your local animal health agency.
Information to collect if you have found sick or dead wild birds or wildlife
- Where you found the dead wild birds or wildlife
- What type of dead wild birds or wildlife you found
- How many there were
- Your contact details (optional)
Your report can be anonymous, but we won’t be able to follow-up with you for further information.
View wildlife reports across Victoria
Agriculture Victoria monitors reports of sick or dead wild birds and wildlife, including marine mammals, submitted through the online reporting form and the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
You can view these reports on our interactive map, which shows where cases have been reported across Victoria and helps you understand what is being seen in your area.
Wild bird surveillance program
An influenza virus wild bird surveillance program is in place across Australia, coordinated by Wildlife Health Australia.