Avian Flu Outbreak Devastates Seabird Populations Along South African Coastline

Widespread Avian Flu Outbreak Confirmed

A significant outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), identified as the H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b strain, is currently devastating seabird populations along South Africa's coastline. Since June 2025, more than 1,000 suspected cases of the virus have been reported, with confirmed detections primarily in the Western Cape. This marks the first widespread wild-bird detection in the province since April 2024, raising serious concerns among conservationists.

The Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB) has confirmed the outbreak, noting its severe impact on multiple species.

Affected Species and Symptoms

The HPAI outbreak is affecting a broad range of seabird species. Initially, Hartlaub's gulls were among the most affected, particularly in early August 2025. However, the virus has since been confirmed in other species, including:

• Great White Pelicans
• Grey-headed Gulls
• Kelp gulls
• White-breasted cormorants
• Crowned Cormorants
• Sacred Ibises
• African penguins
• Cape cormorants
• Cape gannets
• Swift terns
• Common terns
• Eurasian whimbrel

Of particular concern is the confirmation of HPAI in African penguins, a critically endangered species already facing immense pressure from various threats. Infected birds often display neurological signs such as tremors, head twitches, seizures, cloudy eyes, unusual tameness, or an inability to walk or fly.

Conservation Efforts and Public Advisory

In response to the escalating crisis, SANCCOB has reinforced its biosecurity protocols to protect its seabird hospitals and support conservation authorities. Measures include distributing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and disinfectant kits across the Western and Eastern Cape, and establishing temporary quarantine units for rescued seabirds. SANCCOB is also working with State Veterinary Services and other conservation authorities to monitor and manage the disease, advising on response procedures, and arranging humane euthanasia for birds showing clinical signs.

The public is urged to exercise extreme caution and avoid direct contact with sick or dead birds. Authorities advise reporting sightings immediately to allow trained responders to act swiftly and safely. While the risk of HPAI transmission to humans remains very low, basic precautions are essential.

Broader Impact and Historical Context

The current outbreak adds further pressure to already declining seabird populations. South Africa has experienced previous significant HPAI outbreaks, including in 2017-2018 (H5N8 strain) and 2021-2022 (H5N1 strain), which resulted in thousands of seabird deaths, including Cape cormorants and African penguins. The virus has also been confirmed on Marion Island, South Africa's sub-Antarctic territory, affecting species like wandering albatrosses and king penguins since late 2024. The financial burden on conservation organizations like SANCCOB due to the ongoing outbreak is significant.