Reports of dead, sick ibis at Surfers Paradise Esplanade sparks investigation

Wildlife authorities have launched an investigation following the discovery of numerous dead and sick ibis at a Gold Coast tourist hot spot.

Wildlife authorities have launched an investigation following the discovery of numerous dead and sick ibis at a Gold Coast tourist hot spot.

It is understood clusters of the affected native birds have been found along the Surfers Paradise Esplanade in recent months, sparking fears of potential poisoning.

RSPCA Queensland spokeswoman Emma Lagoon said its rescue team attended three call outs for sick and deceased ibis in the area with fellow animal protection group Wildcare on Saturday alone.

“Sadly, the first call was about two deceased birds located, in the second call out, the ibis was still alive but unwell and collected by a local rescuer,” she said.

“The third bird was down and in a very bad way. It had a very weak blink reflex and started to have seizures. The bird was taken to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary for veterinary care.”

An ibis in Surfers Paradise on Monday. Picture: Glenn Hampson

Ms Lagoon said some testing of the birds has been carried out by Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary to determine a cause of their sickness and death.

Results of this testing were not a available at the time of writing. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary was contacted for comment, but did not respond by deadline.

“It is very concerning that there is something making our birds very sick in the area and we hope to understand more soon to prevent further deaths,” Ms Lagoon said.

“Our rescue team is on alert for any further sick birds noticed in the area.”

RSPCA Queensland spokeswoman Emma Lagoon. Picture: Marcel Baum

Anyone who comes across sick birds in the area is urged to phone RSPCA’s 24/7 animal hotline 1300 ANIMAL (264 625).

A Department of Environment and Science spokesman said wildlife officers had not received any reports about deceased ibis around Surfers Paradise in recent months.

“Anyone with information about animal cruelty is encouraged to report it by calling 1300 130 372, or by contacting the RSPCA,” he said.

The Australian white ibis is a native bird protected under state wildlife legislation (Nature Conservation Act 1992).

It is a serious offence to harm an ibis.

It is an offence to take, or kill a protected animal unless the person is authorised under the act.

People can be issued with a $718 fine for taking, or killing birds.

The maximum court-imposed penalty for breaching the act is $14,375.