The deadly wave of bird flu decimating wildlife around the world is believed to have reached elephant seals in the sub-Antarctic Australian territory of Heard Island.

Australian Antarctic Program scientists found an unusual number of dead elephant seals on the island and symptoms consistent with the H5N1 avian influenza virus, but the outbreak will not be confirmed until samples reach Australia for testing.

Elephant seals on Heard Island. The deadly H5N1 bird flu may have reached the sub-Antarctic Australian territory. Credit: Matt Curnock

In other parts of Antarctica and sub-Antarctica, the virus has infected a wide range of wildlife, with devastating consequences. This strain of bird flu has spread to every continent except Australia, killing huge numbers of animals. For example,

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