13/08/2026
🦜 thank you Outdoors Queensland it is our responsibility to be informed and do all we can to support our birdlife 🥺
In the news: H5 Avian Influenza (bird flu). As H5 avian influenza (bird flu) has been detected in Australia, we must all do what we can to help protect both native and farmed species alike.
How can we help?? (save and action this post). Our sector is ideally placed to help as we tend to spend a lot of time in wild places and untamed environments. So, here's how we can help:
✅ Keep footwear, equipment and clothing clean - especially when visiting national parks, nature reserves or agricultural areas keep equipment, shoes and clothes clean. This reduces the risk of disease spreading between places. Model best practice.
Follow the Leave No Trace principles (see yesterday's post).
✅ Give wildlife space
Wildlife can be sensitive. Reduce stress and disturbance by keeping your distance when enjoying outdoor activities like bushwalking and canoeing.
✅ Avoid, record, report - Report sick birds and wildlife
⚠️ If you do see a group of sick or dead wildlife: Avoid contact and keep your distance.
Record the date, time, location and take photos > Report it to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
✅ Keep pets away from wildlife - Prevent cats from roaming. Always keep dogs on leash, especially in areas with native species.
✅ Volunteer - Take part in habitat restoration activities to improve local habitats. Activities include revegetating, weeding or removing rubbish from local natural areas.
✅ Plant native vegetation - Plant local native species in your garden providing natural habitat and a food source for native species. Avoid supplementary feeding, as this can increase the spread of diseases among birds.
✅ Participate in bird surveys and contribute to citizen science projects - Aussie Backyard Bird Count, platforms like BirdLife Australia’s Birdata and the Atlas of Living Australia to record bird observations. This contributes to a better understanding of bird health and population trends.
More info, resources & links: www.outdoorsqueensland.com.au/h5-avian-influenza
