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Information for hunters

The Territory's magpie geese and other native birds are at risk from bird flu.

It is currently considered safe to hunt, handle and eat wild birds. However, infected birds may not show signs of illness.

There are no changes to waterfowl hunting arrangements this season.

If you are hunting, do not harvest or handle sick or dead birds. Always follow good hygiene practices when handling game.

Reduce the risk of spreading disease

If you harvest wetland birds, such as ducks, magpie geese or other legally harvested waterfowl, safe food preparation starts in the field and continues through to cooking.

When hunting:

  • do not collect, handle or eat birds that appear sick or are found dead
  • clean and disinfect all equipment before leaving the site
  • wear rubber or disposable gloves when handling and cleaning game, if available
  • consider wearing a face mask and safety glasses, especially when working indoors or in poorly ventilated areas
  • wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling game, or use hand sanitiser if soap and water are not available
  • avoid touching your face, eyes, nose or mouth while handling birds
  • do not eat, drink or smoke while handling or cleaning birds.

Cook all game meat to an internal temperature of at least 74°C. Make sure there is no visible blood before eating.

Read the magpie geese and waterfowl hunting rules.

Risk to people

The current risk of bird flu to people in Australia is low, as bird flu rarely affects people.

There has been no human case of this strain reported in Australia.

For more information about avian influenza in humans, go to the NT Health website.

Report sick or dead birds

Everyone can help monitor and manage bird flu.

If you see multiple sick or dead birds, you must:

  • avoid contact with the birds
  • keep pets away and do not let them touch or eat the birds
  • record what you see, including the location
  • take photos or videos if it is safe to do so.

You can report the sighting by:

Bird flu