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Read more World Seabird Day calls attention to public role in responding to ongoing avian influenza threat affecting birds

CapeNatureRef: https://www.capenature.co.za/news/2026/world-seabird-day-calls-attention-to-public-role-in-responding-to-ongoing-avian-influenza-threat-affecting-birds

Official source

Source domain: capenature.co.za

Collected on 13 July 2026

Always confirm details on the official source before acting.

Our copy (archived 14 July 2026)Official source

What this means

This is a CapeNature news/media statement dated 3 July 2026 for World Seabird Day. It urges the public to stay vigilant because Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI/bird flu) is affecting birds across South Africa, including seabirds along the Western Cape coastline. The statement instructs people not to touch, move, or attempt to rescue sick or dead birds, to keep pets away, and to report suspected cases using specified channels and contact details. It also notes that HPAI cannot currently be treated in wild birds and that authorities may arrange humane euthanasia if infection is confirmed.

What this document offers

Read out of this document by Govermate's AI, in its own words. Each one quotes the line it came from — confirm on the official source before acting.

public reporting for coordinated responseOngoing

Report multiple dead birds close together for safe removal

If you see multiple dead birds close together, you should report it to the relevant authority so they can arrange safe removal.

Who it is for
members of the public who encounter multiple dead birds close together
How to act on it
Report to the relevant authority (stranding networks, municipality, CapeNature, SANParks, or landowner) for safe removal.
Show the line this came from
Multiple dead birds close together: report to relevant authority (stranding networks, municipality, CapeNature, SANParks, or landowner) for safe removal
public reporting channel for suspected diseaseOngoing

Report live seabirds with suspected avian influenza (HPAI)

If you see a live seabird that may be affected by avian influenza, you should observe it from a safe distance, record details (including location, date, species if known, number affected, and any unusual clinical signs), and report it through the live seabird channel.

Who it is for
members of the public who encounter sick or dead birds
How to act on it
Contact a seabird rehabilitati
Show the line this came from
Reports can be made through the following channels: Live seabirds: contact a seabird rehabilitati

Facts

Places

Western Cape

Reference

https://www.capenature.co.za/news/2026/world-seabird-day-calls-attention-to-public-role-in-responding-to-ongoing-avian-influenza-threat-affecting-birds

Key Takeaways

  • Organisation: CapeNature (public institution in the Western Cape)
  • Event: World Seabird Day
  • Date of statement: 3 Jul 2026
  • Threat: Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) / bird flu
  • Geographic focus: South Africa; seabirds along the Western Cape coastline
  • Public safety instructions: do not touch/move/rescue sick or dead birds; keep pets away
  • Reporting guidance: observe from safe distance; record location, date, species (if known), number affected, unusual behaviour/clinical signs
  • Reporting channels: live seabirds via SANCCOB; dead seabirds via DFFE OCIMS Avian Influenza Reporting Tool (ArcGIS link provided)
  • Multiple dead birds close together: report to relevant authority (stranding networks, municipality, CapeNature, SANParks, or landowner) for safe removal
  • Contact details: 083 236 2924; estuaries@capenature.co.za
  • Medical note: seek medical advice if flu-like symptoms develop after potential exposure
  • Treatment note: HPAI cannot currently be treated in wild birds; humane euthanasia may be arranged by authorities
  • CapeNature
  • CapeNature CEO Dr Ashley Naidoo
  • SANCCOB (seabird rehabilitation centre)
  • DFFE OCIMS (Avian Influenza Reporting Tool)
  • Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE)
  • State Veterinarian (local)
  • SANParks
  • Municipality
  • Stranding networks
  • CapeNature General Manager: Advocacy Petro van Rhyn
  • Dr Ashley Naidoo
  • Petro van Rhyn

Dates

Closing Date

3 July 2026