Urban foxes contract bird flu, prompting call for city-wide pest control overhaul

Late August saw the detection of H5 bird flu in a red fox in Adelaide, marking the virus's first appearance in an Australian mammal, with a second fox death in Torquay, Victoria, later confirmed as flu-related. Urban fox populations can be up to three times denser than in the countryside, with some Melbourne suburbs reporting 16 to 23 foxes per square kilometre, providing ample food and shelter. Experts warn that sick foxes may venture closer to homes, increasing the chance of contaminated carcasses being moved around cities.

They recommend residents clear backyard food, secure bins and keep pets safe from potential predation. The National Farmers Federation's chief executive, Mike Guerin, welcomed recent federal funding for pest control and urged states to match it, stressing the link between pest management, biosecurity and food security. Veterinary officer Beth Cookson called the finding a concerning but expected development, reminding the public to avoid contact with sick wildlife.