South Australia has confirmed four additional cases of H5N1 avian influenza in endangered Australian sea lions, raising concerns about the spread of the virus among the vulnerable species. The cases were identified on the Pages Island group, located off the state’s southeast coast, where four out of ten deceased sea lions tested positive for the bird flu virus. Among the affected individuals was one pup.

This development brings the total confirmed infections of H5N1 in Australian sea lions to five. The first case was reported earlier this month on Kangaroo Island, another critical habitat for the species. Both the Pages Island group—which includes North and South Page Islands—and Kangaroo Island serve as important breeding grounds for the Australian sea lion population.

South Australia Environment Minister Emily Bourke confirmed the findings during a recent briefing, emphasizing the potential risks posed to the endangered mammals. The National Parks and Wildlife Service highlights that fewer than 12,000 Australian sea lions remain in the wild, with approximately 85% of the population residing in South Australian waters.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to assess the impact of the virus on the species and the broader ecosystem. Efforts to mitigate further spread and evaluate possible conservation measures are underway as officials seek to protect these native marine mammals from the outbreak.