Four Australian sea lions found dead at The Pages, between mainland South Australia and Kangaroo Island, have tested positive for H5 bird flu.
ABC News reported that the positive results came from three adults and one pup among 10 deceased sea lions available for testing at North and South Page islands. The results bring the number of confirmed sea-lion cases in South Australia to five following an earlier case at Seal Bay.
About 900 crested terns have also been found dead at The Pages. Authorities are monitoring the wildlife impact while discussing a possible mammal-vaccine trial with the federal government. A separate bird-vaccine trial at Cleland Wildlife Park has delivered more than 150 doses.
South Australia's environment department advises people not to touch sick or dead wildlife, to keep pets away and to report affected animals with location details where possible.
Sources: ABC News, updated 21 September 2026; South Australian Department for Environment and Water guidance.
Image disclosure: The featured image is an AI-generated editorial illustration. It does not depict the affected animals, islands or researchers.
