Bird flu (Avian influenza)

Bird flu is a type of virus that mainly affects birds. It can also affect other animals and, on rare occasions, humans.

A highly pathogenic strain known as H5 avian influenza or H5 bird flu has been affecting wild birds, poultry and wild and domestic mammals across the world.

Australia confirmed its first case of H5 bird flu in a migratory seabird near Esperance on 20 June 2026.

The City is prepared to support the community in responding to bird flu and is working with State Government agencies to share information and respond to reports of sick or dead wildlife.

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) leads the coordinated response to bird flu working closely with the Australian Centre for Disease Control (CDC). In Western Australia the lead agency is the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD).

We all have a role to play in protecting native birds in our urban environment.

What you can do

Infected animals might look very sick - or show no signs at all. Sometimes birds can die suddenly without warning. If you do come across a bird that looks sick or has died, follow these steps:

AVOID

Avoid direct contact with birds or wildlife that are sick or have died unexpectedly.

RECORD

If you see sick or dead birds or wildlife, note the number of dead birds or animals, species, location, date and time.

REPORT

For less than 5 sick or dead birds or wildlife – contact Wildcare Hotline on 9474 9055.

For more than 5 sick or dead birds, unusual signs of disease or mass deaths in wildlife – contact the Emergency Animal Disease hotline on 1800 675 888 (select WA option).

What if I have pet birds or poultry

Keep Wild Birds Away

• Keep your birds separated from wild birds wherever possible.
• Make sure wild birds cannot access your birds' feed, water or enclosures.
• Remove or cover ponds and other areas that may attract wild birds.

Keep Things Clean

• Clean food and water containers regularly.
• Keep enclosures clean and free from bird droppings.
• Thoroughly clean concrete floors, walls and aviary wire with soapy water. Apply disinfectant after cleaning.
• Wash your hands before and after handling your birds.
• Clean your footwear and clothing, especially after visiting places where other birds are kept.

Isolate New or Sick Birds

• Keep new or sick birds separate from your flock for at least 30 days.

Keep your chickens and pets safe 

• Prevent cats, dogs and other animals from entering bird enclosures.
• Keep your dog on lead when in public, especially in places where birds gather. 
• Keep your cats indoors. 

Know the Signs 

Watch for:

• Birds that appear sick, tired or fluffed up.
• Reduced appetite or drinking.
• Diarrhoea or unexplained deaths.
• Coughing, sneezing, watery eyes or nasal discharge.
• Difficulty walking, weakness or unusual head movements.
• Swelling of the head or legs, or a blue tinge to the comb, wattle or legs.
• Fewer eggs, or eggs with soft or misshapen shells.

How to report

If you notice sick or dead birds or other animals, you should not touch them. If there are multiple dead birds or other animals, take photos or a video.

Record your location and report it to the 24-hour Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.

For more information and reporting options, visit the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development website.

Resources 

Poultry biosecurity | Check your backyard flocks

Providing safe water for poultry 

Fact sheet | Preparing for H5 bird flu