Passionate conservation volunteer and bird bander Peter tells us why bird flu vigilance matters. Peter has worked and volunteered in nature conservation for many years. He helps band birds and check their health. This work could help spot signs of H5 avian influenza (bird flu) early.
"I have lived and worked in and around Adelaide my whole life and have spent over 25 years working and volunteering in the environmental sector."
"I have worked with Trees For Life, volunteering for its Bush For Life program. I have also been involved with the Friends of Scott Creek Conservation Park.
"While my main focus has been restoring native vegetation and habitat, this work has made me more aware of the incredible range of wildlife around us, from invertebrates to reptiles, birds and mammals.
"Birds, in particular, hold a special place for me.
"When I started volunteering with Friends of Scott Creek Conservation Park, I became involved in their bird banding project. At first, I came along to observe and help check the nets, but over time I became more involved in processing the birds. We take measurements and fit a small band with a unique identification number. Seeing birds up close and in the hand gave me a completely new appreciation for how beautiful and delicate they are.
"What worries me most about H5 bird flu is the thought of it affecting the wild birds I see every day, whether in my garden, at Scott Creek, or when travelling elsewhere. Our bird life already has a tough time due to habitat clearance and threats from feral animals like cats and foxes. Bird flu would be another serious challenge they do not need.
"As part of bird banding work, we look carefully for any symptoms of bird flu and report sick birds if we see them. Hygiene is very important. We use protective gloves and sanitising equipment to reduce the risk of spreading disease between birds or to people handling them.
"I believe everyone has a role to play in preventing bird flu. Whether you work with wildlife, keep birds, or are simply out and about in nature following good hygiene and reporting sick birds early can make a real difference. These small actions help protect our birds and the ecosystems they depend on."
Australia remains free of H5 bird flu.
The banding activities discussed in this article have been registered through the Australian Bird and Bat Banding Scheme (ABBBS) and have received the necessary wildlife ethics approvals and permits from the South Australian Department of Environment and Water.
