Little penguins living on Granite and Kangaroo Islands are closer to getting vaccinated for H5 bird flu, the Premier announced today.<\/p>\n
Premier Peter Malinauskas and Environment Minister Emily Bourke visited Granite Island today to share plans to protect the growing penguin colony.<\/p>\n
The state government has approved a targeted vaccine program, which now awaits sign-off from the federal environment department before the penguins can be vaccinated.<\/p>\n
\u201cLittle penguins are a much-loved part of South Australia\u2019s wildlife, and this targeted program will provide an additional layer of protection against the threat posed by H5 bird flu,\u201d Malinauskas said.<\/p>\n
\u201cVaccination is not a standalone solution, but it is an important addition to the surveillance, biosecurity and preparedness measures already in place across the state.\u201d<\/p>\n
There are 36 adult penguins on Granite Island, according to last year\u2019s penguin census. The species are SA\u2019s only penguins and have been flagged as being highly vulnerable to H5 bird flu.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Granite Island’s little penguins. Video: Department of Environment and Water<\/p>\n
Bourke said vaccinating any free-living wildlife \u201cis complex\u201d.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe program has, therefore, been carefully planned to ensure the highest standards of veterinary care and animal welfare, while minimising disturbance to the penguins and other wildlife.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis targeted program, if approved, will be delivered transparently and guided by expert advice and the latest evidence, giving the little penguins the best protection we can provide.\u201d<\/p>\n
It comes after 150 birds across more than 30 species were vaccinated at Cleland Wildlife Park, and more prioritised birds are in line for approved vaccines at Cleland and SA\u2019s zoos.<\/p>\n
There have been 328 bird flu events recorded in SA, according to the state government, with more than 2400 birds tested since January.<\/p>\n