New Zealand Vaccinates Endangered Birds to Combat H5N1 Bird Flu Outbreak

Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard stated last week that the vaccinations are a priority because these birds are found only in New Zealand. The move comes as officials warn of the potential extinction risk the virus poses to the nation’s unique wildlife. Mary van Andel, the chief veterinary officer for the primary industries ministry, warned that while some species might not be affected, others could die in large numbers if a mass outbreak occurs.

Response and Containment

The two infected birds found last week were both alive. In anticipation of the pathogen, New Zealand had spent the last year regularly testing thousands of birds. Current containment efforts include some poultry producers locking free-range hens indoors and the country’s oldest zoo cancelling close-encounter experiences with penguins. Additionally, the public has been warned not to move or touch dead wildlife.

The H5N1 strain, which first appeared in Europe in 2020, has killed millions of birds worldwide and has also infected humans and mammals such as tigers, polar bears, foxes, and sea lions. In both New Zealand and Australia, the virus was first identified in the brown skua, a subantarctic seabird. Oceania was the world’s only region free of the strain until last month, when an infected seabird was found on a beach in Western Australian, as reported by CNN.

Endangered Species at Risk

The outbreak is a particular concern for species like the kākāpō—a nocturnal, flightless parrot. Most of the kākāpō population, which totals 235, resides on a single island sanctuary off the coast of Rakiura/Stewart Island.

Other unique native birds at risk include the takahē and the kiwi. According to a 2017 government report, more than half of the 93 remaining endemic species in New Zealand are considered to be on the brink of extinction.

Sources: CNN.