Now that Bird Flu has been detected in Victoria, volunteers should take sensible precautions to ensure we can still clean up safely.
There is currently no advice to stop beach cleaning in Victoria. However, because Bird Flu has now been detected in wild seabirds along the southwest coast of Victoria, everyone should take extra care when working around birds and wildlife.
This information is based on current Agriculture Victoria and DEECA guidance and will be updated as advice changes. Click here to see the latest official updates.
Before you start
✔ Wear gloves.
✔ Cover any cuts or grazes with a waterproof dressing.
✔ Bring hand sanitiser or plan to wash your hands before eating or drinking.
✔ If working in an area with large amounts of dried bird droppings, consider wearing a P2/N95 mask.
While cleaning the beach
✔ Avoid touching your face while wearing gloves.
✔ Stay well away from sick or dead birds and marine mammals.
✔ Keep dogs away from wildlife.
✔ Be aware that bird droppings may contaminate some marine debris.
Continue collecting litter as normal unless there appears to be an unusual wildlife disease event.
If you find a dead bird
Do not touch it.
Instead:
📍 Record the location (use PS if possible).
📸 Take a photo from a safe distance.
☎ Report it. See details below.
In Victoria, report:
- 5 or more dead wild birds anywhere.
- Any single dead seabird, waterbird, shorebird or bird of prey.
- Any dead marine mammal (seal, sea lion or dolphin).
If you find several dead birds
If multiple birds have died in the same area:
- Stop working nearby.
- Keep volunteers away from the area.
- Record the location.
- Report it immediately.
- Consider relocating or postponing the clean-up until authorities provide advice.
Hygiene after your clean-up
✔ Remove gloves carefully.
✔ Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water.
✔ Clean litter pickers, buckets and reusable gloves.
✔ Wash clothing if it has become contaminated with bird droppings.
Feeling unwell?
Human infection is very rare, but if you develop flu-like symptoms after close contact with sick or dead birds, seek medical advice promptly and mention your exposure.
Report sick or dead wildlife
Emergency Animal Disease Hotline
Please report:
- Clusters of dead wild birds.
- Any sick or dead seabird, waterbird, shorebird or bird of prey.
- Any sick or dead marine mammal.
Thank you
By collecting marine debris responsibly and reporting unusual wildlife deaths, BeachPatrol volunteers are helping protect both our coastline and our wildlife.
