Mystery illness killing magpies sparks fears of population decline
A mysterious illness known as 'magpie paralysis syndrome' is affecting hundreds of magpies in Perth and Western Australia. Wildlife carers report a significant increase in cases, raising concerns about potential population decline. Researchers are investigating the cause, having ruled out known diseases like avian influenza.
- ▪The illness causes paralysis and weakness in magpies, with a mortality rate of about 50% for treated birds.
- ▪Over the past year, Perth's major wildlife hospital treated 500 sick or dying magpies, with similar numbers reported in previous seasons.
- ▪Researchers have ruled out notifiable diseases and are working to identify the cause, which is proving to be complex and time-consuming.
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Scientists investigate mystery illness paralysing and killing hundreds of magpiesBy Andrew WilliamsPBy Pip WallerBy Brianna MelvilleTopic:BirdsTue 19 May 2026 at 12:37pmTue 19 May 2026 at 12:37pmTue 19 May 2026 at 12:37pmThe magpies affected by the disease often cannot move their legs or are very weak. (ABC News: Pip Waller)In short:A mystery illness dubbed 'magpie paralysis syndrome' is paralysing and killing hundreds of magpies across Perth and WA.Wildlife carers and researchers fear the disease could be contributing to declining magpie populations.What's next?Scientists are still trying to determine the cause, with avian influenza and other notifiable diseases ruled out.abc.net.au/news/wa-magpie-paralysis-syndrome-mystery-illness-population-decline/106645526Link copiedShareShare…
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