health
How do you vaccinate 1,000 tiny penguins against bird flu in the wild? It’s ‘really tricky’ but there is a way
Phillip Island’s ‘iconic’ little penguins get first bird flu vaccinations in what is thought to be largest program of its kind
TL;DR
- Over 1,000 little penguins in Victoria have received their first bird flu vaccine.
- This is believed to be the world's largest vaccination program for wild birds.
- Penguins are trapped, penned, and then vaccinated, with a second dose planned in three weeks.
- Little penguins are considered at 'very high risk' from deadly bird flu.
- The population on Phillip Island is about 40,000, with the 'penguin parade' attracting 700,000 visitors annually and contributing significantly to the economy.
- Confirmed cases of bird flu in little penguins in Victoria and South Australia have increased the urgency of the vaccination program.
- A previous report warned that vaccination after the virus arrives might be too late, potentially leading to the death of up to 16,000 little penguins.
- Vaccination is considered one tool to reduce impact, but not a standalone solution, with biosecurity remaining critical.
- Little penguins face multiple threats including climate change impacts, with bird flu being an additional danger.