Bird flu vaccination program expands to Penguin Island
Western Australia’s wild little penguins on Penguin Island have received vaccinations against H5 bird flu, as the State Government expands its wildlife vaccination program.
Up to 35 little penguins have been vaccinated, with two doses administered three to four weeks apart, followed by a required observation period.
The expanded program also includes 91 birds representing 21 native species cared for at Perth Zoo, including black swans, Australian blue-billed ducks, emus and southern cassowaries.
The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions and Perth Zoo are leading vaccination planning and implementation, working with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development and other partners.
Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn said the program would add another layer of protection for Penguin Island’s little penguin colony and other native wildlife.
“For the first time, Western Australia’s wild little penguins on Penguin Island will be vaccinated against H5 bird flu, to give them every possible protection,” he said.
The rollout builds on encouraging results from Perth Zoo’s vaccination trials involving three black cockatoo species in May. The birds remain under observation and have so far shown a positive antibody response, with no significant adverse reactions reported.
Penguin Island’s little penguin population is already monitored through nest box checks, remote cameras and microchip reader technology, alongside habitat improvements and visitor management around nesting areas.
Agriculture and Food and Fisheries Minister Jackie Jarvis said vaccination was one of several measures strengthening Western Australia’s preparedness for H5 bird flu.
“Western Australia has been preparing for the arrival of H5 bird flu for several years, and vaccination is one of the tools helping strengthen our biosecurity response,” she said.
The program forms part of a coordinated State and Commonwealth response, with the Australian Government investing almost $2 million in vaccine procurement, trials and pilot studies. The Commonwealth has identified almost 10,000 native birds across Australia for vaccination.
Western Australia’s broader preparedness measures include enhanced wildlife surveillance and testing, additional training for response personnel, regional response teams, community and industry engagement, and grants to help wildlife groups prepare for the impacts of bird flu.
