H5 Bird Flu - Information For Landcarers

H5 bird flu (high pathogenicity avian influenza) has now been detected in wild birds in Tasmania.
Landcare Tasmania is not the lead agency for bird flu information or response. We’re providing these links to help Landcare members, groups and volunteers find the latest official information relevant to working in and caring for Tasmania’s environment.
information up to date as of 20/8/2026

If you see sick or dead birds or other wildlife

Avoid. Record. Report.
  • Do not touch sick or dead birds or other wildlife, and keep pets away.
  • Record the location and what you see. Take photos or video from a safe distance if possible.
  • Report it to the 24-hour Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
For current Tasmanian advice, reporting information and updates:
NRE Tasmania – H5 Bird Flu

Information relevant to Landcare activities

If you are working or volunteering in areas where birds and other wildlife are present, particularly wetlands, waterways and coastal areas, check current advice before activities and follow any site closures or directions.
NRE Tasmania also recommends taking normal biosecurity precautions when moving between natural areas and farms, including cleaning footwear, clothing, vehicles and equipment where appropriate.
NRE Tasmania – Bird Flu and Wildlife
For people who work or volunteer with birds or wildlife:
Australian Centre for Disease Control – Bird flu toolkit for people who work with birds
BirdLife Australia – H5 bird flu FAQs
Practical information for people interested in birds and conservation, including what to look out for, visiting reserves and wetlands, pets, and impacts on wild bird populations.

If you keep chickens or other birds

There is specific advice for backyard poultry, pet birds and other kept birds, including reducing contact with wild birds and maintaining good biosecurity.
NRE Tasmania – Chickens and other birds

Human health information

For current information about bird flu and human health:
Tasmanian Department of Health – Bird flu
Australian Centre for Disease Control – Bird flu

Keep up to date

For the latest national situation and resources:
Australian Government – birdflu.gov.au
You can also subscribe to Tasmanian Biosecurity Advisories to receive updates directly from Biosecurity Tasmania.
As the situation can change quickly, please refer to the official sources above for current advice.