Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Australia Records First H5N1 Tern Die-Off, 80 Birds Dead

8/2/2026

50 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Australia reported its first suspected H5N1 mass mortality, with 80 terns dead or sick on Baudin Rocks.
South Australia chief veterinarian Skye Freuan reported 49 dead and 35 sick terns and inland cases at Monarto.
Victoria confirmed its first greater crested tern case in Portland, joining four other states with H5N1 positives.
Three silver gulls were suspected positive and could spread H5N1 inland, threatening sea lions at Seal Bay.

1 of 1

Story summary

Australia reported its first suspected H5N1 mass mortality, with 80 terns dead or sick on Baudin Rocks.
South Australia chief veterinarian Skye Freuan reported 49 dead and 35 sick terns and inland cases at Monarto.
Victoria confirmed its first greater crested tern case in Portland, joining four other states with H5N1 positives.
Three silver gulls were suspected positive and could spread H5N1 inland, threatening sea lions at Seal Bay.