H5 avian influenza has been detected in wild birds in Tasmania. This is a significant development for Tasmania’s wildlife community, and Wildlife Network Tasmania (WNT) is committed to being present and engaged as the situation evolves
NRE Tasmania is the lead agency for the response, and WNT will work alongside government, wildlife organisations and the broader rehabilitation community to represent the sector and support a coordinated and informed response.
Our immediate priority is supporting Tasmania’s wildlife rehabilitators and volunteers as they navigate this emerging situation. We recognise their expertise and skill and the important role they play in caring for injured and orphaned wildlife. WNT recognises the need for clear, consistent information to help them make safe and informed decisions.
We urge all Tasmanians to remain vigilant and follow the advice of NRE Tasmania. If you encounter sick or dead birds or other wildlife, Avoid, Record and Report. Do not handle affected animals. Record what you see, including the species, number and location, and take photographs or video where it is safe to do so.
Reports should be made to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
Looking after each other
We also recognise that the arrival of H5 bird flu may be emotionally difficult for people who care deeply about wildlife. Seeing injured, sick or dead animals can be distressing, particularly for those who work or volunteer in wildlife rescue and rehabilitation.
Looking after ourselves and each other is an important part of responding well. It is okay to ask for support, and we encourage our wildlife community to do so if they need it.
Support is available through:
- Access Mental Health: 1800 332 388 — 24 hours, 7 days
- Head to Health: 1800 595 212 — 8.30am–5pm weekdays
- A Tasmanian Lifeline: 1800 984 434 — 8am–8pm, 7 days
- Lifeline: 13 11 44 — 24 hours, 7 days
WNT has been preparing for avian influenza for some time and will continue to monitor developments and share relevant information with our wildlife rehabilitation community as it becomes available.
Our wildlife community is facing this challenge together. WNT is here to support our volunteers, work constructively with government and help ensure the wildlife rehabilitation sector has a strong voice throughout the response.
