A year ago, we reported on preparations for the arrival of the highly pathogenic avian flu that has ripped through poultry, sea birds, mammals and a host of other species overseas (see ‘Skyfall’, Issue 190). At that time, the Department of Conservation was trialling vaccinations in five of our most endangered birds: kākāpō, kākāriki, takahē, kakī, or black stilts, and tūturuatu, shore plovers. All five species had strong responses to the vaccine, DOC now reports, although kakī’s immunity seemed to wane more quickly.
We won’t be able to use these vaccines in wild birds—they’re too hard to catch—but it does give captive populations a layer of protection.
This spring, migrating seabirds will be arriving from the Southern Ocean, where the virus is rampant, so it’s a high-risk time. Early detection will be crucial to helping our native species endure; if you see a group of three or more sick or dead birds, sea mammals or other wildlife, don’t touch them. Call the MPI hotline on 0800 80 99 66.
