Bird flu and what it means for your visit
Seal Bay Conservation Park is open
H5 bird flu has been detected in wild seabirds on Kangaroo Island. The current risk of bird flu to people in Australia is low, but visitors should not touch sick or dead birds or other animals.
Is Seal Bay open?
Yes. Seal Bay Conservation Park is open to visitors.
You may notice temporary changes during your visit, including paused beach access, guided interpretation along the boardwalk and additional visitor directions. Please follow onsite signs and staff directions.
Do I need to book?
No. Bookings are not required.
Please buy tickets when you arrive at the Seal Bay Visitor Centre.
Can I still see Australian sea lions?
Yes. Visitors can view Australian sea lions from the boardwalk.
The boardwalk is wheelchair accessible and provides viewing platforms overlooking the colony and coastline.
Why is beach access temporarily paused?
Beach access is temporarily paused as a precaution to help protect the Australian sea lion colony.
Seal Bay is an important Australian sea lion breeding colony, and H5 bird flu has been detected in wild seabirds at the site. Reducing access to the beach helps protect wildlife while monitoring and response activities continue.
What is the risk to visitors?
The current risk of bird flu to people in Australia is low. Visitors should not touch sick or dead birds or other animals and should follow onsite signs and staff directions.
What should I do if I see sick or dead birds or other wildlife?
Avoid. Record. Report.
- Avoid contact. Do not touch sick or dead birds or other animals.
- Record what you see.
- Report it to a Seal Bay staff member immediately.
Outside Seal Bay, report multiple sick or dead birds or other animals to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
Reports are assessed according to the risk of H5 bird flu. Not every report will require testing or collection of animals.
For current South Australian information and advice, visit birdflu.sa.gov.au.