Projects in Western Australia are helping protect important seabird breeding islands from invasive rodents.
The Houtman Abrolhos Islands National Park is an important nesting habitat for seabird species. These include:
- white-faced storm petrels
- little shearwaters
- bridled terns.
As Australia responds to H5 avian influenza (bird flu), work is underway to help these seabird populations become more resilient. This includes removing invasive house mice from Beacon and Gun islands.
In May 2026, the Western Australian Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DCBA) used drones to deliver bait to eradicate mice from both islands. Follow-up monitoring using attractant-filled tea strainer lures and remote cameras is now helping to assess the success of the eradication program.
No mice have been detected on Beacon Island since this operation began. This is an encouraging early sign that the program has worked.
A small number of mice have been detected on Gun Island. DBCA is testing alternative bait options and planning further eradication work if needed, while continuing to assess the effectiveness of the original baiting program.
Removing invasive rodents reduces pressure on nesting seabirds and helps restore healthier island ecosystems. This supports seabirds' resilience so that they can better withstand and recover from threats such as H5 bird flu.
These projects are supported through the Australian Government's investment of more than $270 million to prepare for and respond to H5 bird flu.
H5 bird flu has been detected in Australian wildlife in all states. There are no detections in poultry or our agricultural system. The current risk of bird flu to people in Australia is low.
