World Seabird Day calls attention to public role in responding to ongoing avian influenza threat affecting birds
As the world marks World Seabird Day today, members of the public are urged to remain vigilant as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), commonly known as bird flu, continues to affect birds across South Africa, including seabirds along the Western Cape coastline.
HPAI is a serious disease affecting birds and can result in significant mortality, particularly among wild bird populations. Members of the public are urged not to touch, move or attempt to rescue sick or dead birds, and to keep pets away from affected animals.
Seabirds are important indicators of the health of our marine and coastal ecosystems. By reporting suspected cases of avian influenza and following safety guidelines, members of the public can support conservation agencies in responding effectively while reducing risks to wildlife and people.
Members of the public can assist monitoring efforts by reporting sightings of sick or dead birds. These reports help conservation authorities and partners track the spread of HPAI, identify affected areas and respond appropriately.
If a bird is encountered, it should be observed from a safe distance and key details recorded, including location, date, species (if known), number of birds affected and any unusual behaviour or clinical signs such as tremors or disorientation. Photographs or video may be taken without disturbing the bird.
Reports can be made through the following channels:
- Live seabirds: contact a seabird rehabilitation centre (SANCCOB).
- Dead seabirds: DFFE OCIMS Avian Influenza Reporting Tool: https://arcg.is/1585011 or https://ocims.environment.gov....
- Multiple dead birds in close proximity: report to the relevant authority (Stranding networks, Municipality, CapeNature, SANParks or landowner) for safe removal. Contact: 083 236 2924 or estuaries@capenature.co.za.
- Other birds: live birds should be reported to the local State Veterinarian and dead birds to the relevant conservation authority. State Veterinarian contact details are available here.
HPAI cannot currently be treated in wild birds. Where infection is confirmed, authorities may arrange humane euthanasia to prevent unnecessary suffering and reduce further transmission.
Certain strains of HPAI can infect humans, although human infections remain rare. The public is encouraged to avoid unnecessary contact with sick or dead birds and to seek medical advice if flu-like symptoms develop following potential exposure.
Additional guidance on reporting and safe response measures is available from CapeNature and conservation partners.
Every report helps conservation authorities and partners monitor the outbreak and support an effective response to protect birds, including seabirds, and other wildlife.
ABOUT CapeNature
CapeNature is a public institution mandated to promote and ensure biodiversity conservation within the Western Cape and is the custodian of the Cape Floristic Region. The Entity manages most of the mountain catchments and reserves that supply ecosystem services to the citizens of the Western Cape. This requires good scientific data, a sound understanding of fynbos ecology and commitment to the principles of integrated biodiversity management and planning. Most of this work is in remote areas out of the public eye but has a direct bearing on the quality of life of millions of people in the province.
MEDIA ENQUIRIES:
CapeNature
General Manager: Advocacy
Petro van Rhyn
pvrhyn@capenature.co.za
071 231 7576
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