The NSW Government has announced that the Little Penguins population in Manly will be vaccinated against H5 bird flu. The vaccination program is for endangered and vulnerable species of birds.
The Government will work with the team at Taronga to ensure the effective vaccination and monitoring of Little Penguins in Manly.
Northern Beaches Council has welcomed the announcement, saying the vaccinations mark a critical step in protecting one of Australia’s most vulnerable seabird colonies.
Deputy Mayor Candy Bingham said the vaccination program was a positive outcome for the penguin colony and the broader Northern Beaches community.
“Our Little Penguins are so loved by our community and are an irreplaceable feature of our Northern Beaches local biodiversity,” Cr Bingham said.
“The impacts of this disease on wildlife populations overseas have been devastating. While we recognise there are no silver bullets to stopping the spread of the virus here, we must do everything we can to help protect these endangered birds before any local outbreak affects the colony.
“Alongside vaccination, continued vigilance and preparedness by all levels of government and the community will remain essential as the situation evolves.”
If you encounter a suspected sick bird or marine mammal, avoid contact, record what you see and report it immediately to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.