H5 bird flu, also known as avian influenza, is present in wild birds in Monash.
The risk to people remains low, but residents can help protect themselves, their pets and local wildlife by knowing what to do if they find sick, injured or dead wildlife.
What is bird flu?
Bird flu mainly affects birds. It can spread between wild birds and domestic birds, including poultry.
In rare cases, it can also affect other animals. Human cases are rare and the virus does not spread easily between people.
Bird flu cannot be controlled in wild birds. The Victorian Government is leading the response and Council is following State Government advice.
Do not touch sick, injured or dead birds or wildlife.
If you find a dead bird, keep children and pets away, and avoid touching:
- feathers
- poo
- eggs
- the area around the animal.
After contact or clean-up, you should:
- wash your hands with soap and warm water (or use alcohol-based hand sanitiser)
- wash any clothes, shoes and tools that may have been contaminated.
Report injured or dead birds or wildlife to Agriculture Victoria. Council is not collecting information.
If you see sick, injured or dead birds and wildlife, record the exact location and what you saw and:
If you find dead birds or wildlife, avoid direct contact and leave it to decompose where it is, unless it creates a safety issue, blocks access or is causing a bad smell.
Removing dead birds or wildlife on Council property
If you find dead birds or wildlife on Council property, contact us on 9518 3555.
Council can arrange safe disposal of dead birds or wildlife found on Council property, including parks, reserves, roadsides and other land managed by Council.
Removing dead birds or wildlife on private property
If you need to remove dead birds or wildlife on your own property:
- Wear long sleeves, gloves and shoes you can clean
- Use a shovel or tongs to avoid direct contact
- Place the animal in a leak-proof plastic bag and tie it shut
- Place it inside a second leak-proof bag
- Put it in your red-lid general waste bin.
Keep pets away from sick or dead birds and wildlife, and avoid letting them investigate bird carcasses.
If your pet has been in contact with a sick or dead bird and becomes unwell, contact your veterinarian.
Off-leash areas
Before letting your dog off leash, check the area and keep your dog close if birds are nearby.
Water bowls
Do not let wild birds access your pet’s food or water. If you are visiting reserves or dog parks, consider bringing your own portable water bowl rather than using shared bowls.