First H5N1 bird flu detection confirmed in Australian dolphin

A dead dolphin found at Goolwa on South Australia's Fleurieu Peninsula has returned a positive test result for H5N1 bird flu, ABC reported, citing state authorities.

SA's Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) said the detection in dolphins was a "new development in Australia", though several cases have been reported in other countries.

The state's chief veterinary officer Dr Skye Fruean said it was expected the dolphin had "eaten a bird or interacted closely with a wild bird".

"We know that dolphins are highly susceptible, which means they are at risk," she said.

Dr Fruean said there were few reports globally because infected dolphins were rarely found on shorelines.

The detection followed a positive result in a red fox found in Adelaide's north-west earlier this week.