Bird flu has been detected in Victoria. Do not approach sick or injured birds. If you suspect a bird is infected with bird flu, call the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
Victoria is home to a rich diversity of native birds, and Vets for Compassion is frequently called out to help those that become injured or unwell.
Common causes of bird injury include:
- Car collisions — one of the leading reasons for bird rescue callouts
- Entanglement — in netting, fishing line, and fences
- Predator attacks — from both wild and companion animals
Our team of volunteer rescuers and vets is also regularly called out to help orphaned nestlings and fledglings that have been separated from their parents.
Beyond injury and illness, Victoria’s native birds face threats on multiple fronts:
- Habitat destruction from urban and rural development
- Deadlier bushfire seasons driven by climate change
- Predator attacks, especially from introduced species
- Disease outbreaks, including the deadly H5N1 (bird flu) virus
How You Can Help Protect Victoria’s Birds
- Slow down when driving in wildlife areas, especially at dawn and dusk
- Avoid netting in your garden, and discard of any netting or used fishing line properly
- Report injured or sick birds as soon as possible — but be aware the evolving bird flu situation may impacts our rescuers’ ability to help
- Give rescuers space — if you see flashing lights or wildlife rescuers on the road, slow down and pass carefully
- Keep dogs on lead in wildlife areas to protect native animals from attack
- Keep cats inside to protect birds from attack
Birds helped in 2025
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