Researchers at Murdoch University are leading investigation of a neurological disorder that is causing paralysis (e.g. weakness, inability to stand or coordinate movements, inability to lift head) in Australian magpies in Western Australia. Cases have been seen in Perth and the surrounding southwest area since 2018 but numbers increased dramatically in the 2024-25 spring and summer. A working group, which includes researchers, wildlife rehabilitation centres, veterinarians, and WHA has been established to investigate the current incident.
The cause of the syndrome is currently unknown and a variety of possibilities are being investigated, including viruses, toxins and parasites. At this stage of the investigation there is not enough evidence to confirm if WA cases are the same as “Black and white” bird neurological syndrome, a syndrome first described in magpies and currawongs on the east coast of Australia in 2003.
For now, researchers are urging the public in Western Australia who see a sick magpie to:
If you see any other unusual signs of disease or deaths in wildlife anywhere in Australia, you can report it to:
- your local State/Territory WHA Coordinator
- the 24-hour Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on free call 1800 675 888
- your local veterinarian
- the Department of Primary Industries or Agriculture in the State/Territory in which the event is occurring/occurred.
Additional information from Murdoch University:
Researchers warn of neurological condition impacting Australian magpies