Hunter Wildlife Rescue volunteers have been working tirelessly to recover hundreds of deceased and suffering birds from inner city locations across Newcastle including Carrington, Hamilton and surrounding suburbs. While some of the birds had to be euthanised, over 100 have been nursed back to health and released.

Hunter Wildlife Rescue volunteer Kerry Walker described the incident as an unprecedented and distressing event, with many birds found disoriented and unable to fly.

“We are extremely concerned that this could be an intentional act of poisoning, given the sheer number of birds affected,” Ms Walker said.

She urged the public not to handle sick or dead birds and instead contact wildlife experts for assistance.

“These birds pose a risk while they remain in public areas, so it’s vital they are handled by professionals,” she said. “They are being taken to vets for assessment and care.”

Ms Walker also noted the severe neurological symptoms seen in the affected birds.

“Some were in better condition than others, but many displayed serious neurological distress—tipping over, unable to fly, and even bleeding,” she explained. “It’s a deeply worrying situation.”

Corellas, known for their playful and social nature, are a beloved part of the local ecosystem, making their suffering all the more heartbreaking.

Mass Casualties Among Newcastle’s Corellas

“These birds have such lively and unique personalities,” Ms Walker added. “To witness them suffering in such large numbers is truly devastating.”

Rescuers estimate that hundreds of birds have already been retrieved, with many of the surviving ones expected to be euthanised due to the severity of their condition.

Critical Vitamin Treatment

To increase the corellas’ chances of survival, the initial treatment involved administering Vitamin K injections—an essential antidote for poisoning.

However obtaining sufficient supplies of the crucial vitamin proved challenging.

“There wasn’t a large stock available in the Newcastle area, so at first, we ran out,” she said.

“The treatment requires an injection every four hours until the birds begin to show signs of recovery.

“We also ensured they had ample fresh water to drink.”

She explained that the birds needed a full five-day course of vitamin therapy to aid their recovery.

EPA Investigation Underway

The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has initiated an inquiry into the incident to determine the cause and hold responsible parties accountable.

“EPA officers are actively investigating multiple locations, collecting samples, and conducting tests,” the agency confirmed in a statement.

“These tests will rule out avian influenza and assess whether pesticides or other toxic substances were misused.”

The EPA is also collaborating with local veterinary clinics to confirm the total number of affected birds and pinpoint the areas most impacted by the event.

The improper use of pesticides or any harmful substances that affect non-target wildlife can lead to significant penalties, including fines of up to $500,000 for individuals and $2,000,000 for corporations.

What can the community do?

• Report suspicious activity: If you witness potential threats to wildlife, contact the EPA immediately on 131 555.
• Report sick or injured animals: If you encounter distressed wildlife, please call Hunter Wildlife Rescue immediately.
• Support wildlife rescue efforts: Organisations like Hunter Wildlife Rescue rely on community donations and volunteers.

Hunter Wildlife Rescue urges anyone with knowledge of this incident to step forward and help authorities bring those responsible to justice.

ABC News, 20 March 2025 – Flock of corella survivors regains strength after suspected mass bird poisoning in Newcastle

ABC News, 17 March – Mass bird death event in Newcastle investigated by NSW Environment Protection Authority

Newcastle Herald 19 March 2025 – Dead Corellas found across Newcastle