The detection relates to a single bird, which was located on Neerim Road near Kambrook Road following a public report through the wildlife hotline. The bird was found on the roadside and not within a park.

Agriculture Victoria and the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) are leading the response, and we are supporting their work locally.

The current advice is that the risk to people remains low.

What residents can do

If you see sick or dead birds or wildlife:

Avoid

Stay away from sick or dead birds and wildlife.

Do not touch birds, feathers, eggs, droppings or surrounding areas. Keep pets away from affected wildlife and locations.

Record

If it is safe to do so from a distance, note:

• the location
• date and time
• species, if known
• number of animals affected
• signs of illness or death.

Report

Report sick or dead wildlife using Agriculture Victoria’s online reporting form or call the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.

Residents should report:

• five or more sick or dead wild birds of any species
• one sick or dead seabird, waterbird, shorebird or bird of prey
• one sick or dead marine mammal.

If you have pets or keep birds

Take some simple precautions to help keep your animals safe:

• Keep pets away from sick or dead wildlife and don’t allow them to investigate or eat dead animals.
• Keep poultry and domestic birds away from wild birds, and protect their feed and water.
• Monitor your animals for signs of illness.

If your pet becomes unwell after contact with wildlife, contact your veterinarian. Suspected illness in poultry or captive birds should be reported to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.

For the latest information and advice, visit Agriculture Victoria.