Funding boost for bird flu surveillance
The New Zealand government is increasing funding for wildlife care facilities to strengthen bird flu surveillance and response efforts nationwide.
The government will provide additional funding to wildlife care facilities, recognising their critical role in New Zealand’s bird flu surveillance and response systems. Conservation Minister Tama Potaka highlighted that these facilities and their staff contribute significantly to protecting vulnerable native species and identifying emerging threats like bird flu. The funding aims to support their ongoing conservation work while ensuring safe operations. Wildlife care facilities will use the funds to enhance biosecurity measures, acquire necessary equipment, or expand capacity to care for sick or injured native birds.
Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard stated that wildlife care facilities are integral to New Zealand’s bird flu surveillance network, operating under existing contracts with the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI). He emphasised that early detection is vital to minimise the impact on industries, wildlife, and communities if bird flu spreads beyond wild birds. The funding will allow facilities to address their most pressing needs, whether through improved protocols, new resources, or increased staffing. MPI is also providing broader support, including equipment and practical guidance, to these facilities.
The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has extended additional support to wildlife care facilities, including access to equipment and expert advice. This assistance is part of a broader effort to bolster New Zealand’s preparedness and response capabilities for bird flu. Facilities can utilise these resources to strengthen their operations and better manage cases of sick or injured native birds. The government’s investment reflects the importance of collaboration between conservation groups and biosecurity agencies in protecting New Zealand’s wildlife.
The public is urged to play a role in early detection by reporting sick or dead birds to MPI’s exotic pest and disease hotline or online portal. Groups of three or more birds should be reported immediately, while individuals should contact the Department of Conservation (DOC) emergency hotline for single or pairs of sick or injured native birds. Authorities advise against handling wildlife or transporting them to DOC offices, as this can pose risks to both the animals and people involved.