Alert centre

DPIRD is responding to the confirmed detection of H5 bird flu in a number of wild migratory seabirds. H5 bird flu is an infectious viral disease that mainly affects birds. 

Queensland fruit fly (Qfly) has been detected in the suburbs of Como and South Perth. Qfly is an invasive pest which attacks more than 300 species of fruits and vegetables and could seriously impact Western Australia’s horticulture industries and home-grown produce.

Polyphagous shot-hole borer is an invasive beetle species that infests a wide range of trees, causing damage by boring into the wood and spreading pathogenic fungi. A Quarantine Area divided into two zones is in place with rules applied to the movement of wood or plant materials. 

It is the responsibility of owners and carers of animals to ensure their safety and survival during a bushfire. These include livestock, horses, companion animals and wildlife. 

The department is tracking down Red Dwarf honey bees from the Burrup Peninsula near Karratha to eradicate the exotic pest. Red Dwarf honey bees are host to a range of bee brood diseases, parasites and viruses, and may also compete with other bees for floral resources.

The African black sugar ant is a significant threat and has the potential to establish in a wide variety of habitats, including both urban areas and precious, undisturbed bushland. All known infestations are under eradication, but we need your help to report any suspicious ants.

Australia is currently free of Foot-and-Mouth disease (FMD) but it is present in neighbouring countries including Indonesia. FMD is one of Australia’s greatest biosecurity risks due to the impact on trade, producers, economy and community. It is a reportable disease in WA and early detection, if it is suspected to occur, is crucial to eradicating it as quickly as possible.

Varroa mite is the most serious threat to Western Australia’s healthy honey bee populations, honey production and the crops that rely on bees for pollination. Varroa mite are small, oval-shaped reddish-brown mites that parasitise adult honey bees and the brood.