Vaccination efforts for Tasmania’s critically endangered orange-bellied parrots commenced today, September 1, 2026, in a bid to protect the species from the spreading H5 bird flu. The program, a joint initiative between state and federal governments, began at the Five Mile Beach Wildlife Management Facility, according to ABC News Tasmania.

Around 350 captive orange-bellied parrots are scheduled to receive the vaccine over the coming months. Deputy Premier Guy Barnett, speaking at the Five Mile Beach facility, confirmed the process involves two vaccinations, administered two weeks apart, followed by a period of monitoring by veterinarians.

“Today is the day when we start the vaccinations of the orange-bellied parrots,” Mr Barnett told ABC News Tasmania. “There will be the first vaccination, then a 2-week period, the second vaccination and then the vets of course have to monitor the bird, including during that time and then in the couple of weeks after the second vaccination.”

Federal Minister Julie Collins highlighted the importance of the program, stating to ABC News Tasmania, “It’s terrific to see the Orange-bellied Parrot being prioritised by the State Government for the vaccination program.” She had previously noted that while the spread of H5 bird flu among wild birds cannot be stopped, vaccination offers a way to protect the most at-risk species.

Wildlife biologist Clare Lawrence informed ABC News Tasmania that eight parrots, recently arrived from Healesville Sanctuary and slated for release in October, were among the first to be vaccinated. Up to 50 birds were expected to receive their initial dose on the first day, with non-breeding birds prioritised to assess any potential fertility effects. Ms Lawrence expressed confidence that no adverse effects are anticipated.

Once fully vaccinated and monitored, these parrots are planned for release at Melaleuca in southwest Tasmania, where they will join the wild population ahead of their annual migration to the mainland next autumn.

The vaccination program comes as H5 bird flu continues to spread across the state. Department secretary Jason Jacobi confirmed to ABC News Tasmania that new cases have been detected on the south-east coast, including a raven found in Triabunna and a tern in Acton Park. These detections follow earlier confirmed cases, such as a Brown Skua at Rocky Cape.

While vaccination is a crucial step for the critically endangered orange-bellied parrots, it is not a practical solution for most wild bird species due to logistical challenges. The focus remains on captive populations and those intended for release as part of recovery programs. The federal government has invested significantly in bird flu preparedness, including securing vaccine doses. Authorities continue to advise that the risk to human health remains low, and there is currently no evidence of the virus in Tasmania’s poultry or agricultural systems.

For more details on the bird flu situation and the vaccination program, readers are encouraged to visit the original report on ABC News Tasmania.