Report sick or dead wild birds and wildlife
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 H5 bird flu in birds
Other signs of H5 bird flu in birds are:
- lack of coordination, tremors, swimming in circles
- twisted neck or other unusual posture
- inability to stand or fly
- diarrhoea
- difficulty breathing, coughing or sneezing
- swelling around the head, neck and eyes
- cloudiness or change in colour of the eyes.
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 of 5 or more sick or dead wild birds of any species, anywhere in Victoria
- report even one
- sick or dead penguin or pelican
- sick or dead bird of prey, such as hawks, owls, eagles
- sick or dead black swan
- sick or dead marine mammal, such as seals, sea lions, dolphins.
DEECA will assess each report and decide if testing is needed.
To report sick or dead livestock, commercial poultry or pets, 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.
Interactive map of reported sick or dead wild birds and wildlife.
The report shows the number and approximate location of sick or dead wild birds and wildlife, including marine mammals, that have been reported to DEECA and recorded in the H5 bird flu wildlife surveillance programme.
Access the report