New Zealand is racing to protect its critically endangered birds, including the flightless kākāpō, from the deadly H5N1 avian influenza ahead of spring migration, which could bring the virus to its shores. With fewer than 250 kākāpō left, even a single outbreak could be catastrophic.
In a world-first trial, the Department of Conservation vaccinated up to 10 captive birds from five endangered species, including the kākāpō, takahē, kakī, tūturuatu, and a type of kākāriki. Using a licensed poultry vaccine (H5N3), four species developed strong antibodies lasting at least six months, offering hope for captive breeding populations and managed offshore islands.
Planning is key, as wild vaccination is logistically difficult. Experts warn vaccines may lose effectiveness as viruses mutate, and incomplete coverage could drive viral evolution. Similar emergency vaccination campaigns have been used abroad, including for California condors in the US.
“If we start too soon, immunity may fade. If too late, we might miss the crucial moment,” says Kate McInnes, DOC senior science adviser.
The goal is to shield vulnerable populations while preparing deployment strategies before migratory birds arrive, buying time to prevent potential mass die-offs.
