Kangaroo Island seals face H5N1 threat as authorities halt beach tours

Bird flu H5N1 has been identified at Seal Bay on Kangaroo Island, a site that supports about five percent of the global Australian sea lion population, roughly 12,000 individuals. In response, authorities have temporarily halted beach tours to reduce human-animal contact, though boardwalk tours continue. Veterinary scientist Wayne Boardman highlighted the virus’s likely jump from birds to sea lions, recalling similar susceptibility in South American and Heard Island seals.

He outlined potential actions, such as deworming pups to improve their health or employing a mammalian flu vaccine currently being tested in the United States, but stressed the need to weigh ecological disturbance against possible gains. Tour operator Craig Wickham described the measures as sensible, while visitors like Giovanna Paresxhi from Brussels adjusted their plans to the limited access, praising the experience despite the restrictions.