Researchers provide update on magpie neurological condition in WA
But here's where it gets controversial: this mystery still lacks a definite cause, even as clues begin to emerge. Murdoch University researchers, in collaboration with WA Wildlife, have released new findings from their investigation into a perplexing neurological syndrome affecting magpies in Western Australia. The study, which began in April 2025, builds on last-known cases to explore potential triggers and mechanisms behind the condition, with ongoing molecular testing and pathology guiding the next steps.
What we know so far
Dr Flaminia Coiacetto, Senior Lecturer at Murdoch University’s School of Veterinary Medicine, emphasizes that progress is incremental but meaningful. “This is an important step forward,” she notes. “While we don’t yet have a definitive answer, the progress we’ve made is guiding our next steps. This work is complex, but every piece of information brings us closer to understanding what’s happening and how best to respond.”
How the investigation is conducted
The research unfolds in three main phases:
- Molecular testing for a broad range of pathogens, including known and potential agents such as viruses, bacteria, and parasites, plus screening for important notifiable diseases through DPIRD.
- Environmental contaminant screening, with liver samples analyzed for about 250 substances, including heavy metals, pesticides, herbicides, and rodenticides.
- Post-mortem examination and pathology to identify signs of disease or infectious agents in organs and tissues.
Initial findings
Dr Bethany Jackson, from Murdoch University’s Centre for Biosecurity and One Health and the School of Veterinary Medicine, reports that several notifiable diseases—such as bird flu and Newcastle disease—have been ruled out by testing. While botulism has not been detected, it remains difficult to exclude completely.
Glyphosate was not found in any samples. Low levels of legacy pesticides (for example, dieldrin and DDT byproducts), rodenticides, and some heavy metals appeared in both affected and unaffected birds, suggesting these may not be the primary cause. Dr Jackson adds that persistence of second-generation rodenticides highlights the importance of cautious pesticide use, considering possible secondary toxicity and environmental impacts.
What’s next
The research team plans to extend their search for infectious agents, including blood parasites and insect-borne viruses, and to compare “normal” magpie cases with those showing neurological signs. Additional testing and potential treatment trials are anticipated for the upcoming season.
Dr Coiacetto notes that wildlife disease investigations often span multiple seasons and sometimes do not yield a single definitive cause. The team remains committed to continuing the work into the next season and to building on what they’ve learned so far. They also express gratitude for support from the public, wildlife sector colleagues, laboratories, and volunteers who contribute to this challenging and unusual condition.
Public guidance
Members of the public should avoid collecting or submitting deceased birds to wildlife centres or Murdoch University for research, as the project requires highly specific, time-sensitive samples. If you encounter a live bird displaying paralysis, contact the Wildcare Helpline at (08) 9474 9055 or take the animal to a wildlife carer or hospital. In cases where five or more sick or dead birds are found in a single area, report it to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline at 1800 675 888.
This project has been made possible through the support of NMI laboratories, DPIRD, wildlife centres, volunteers—including Darling Range Wildlife Shelter, Kanyana Wildlife, Perth Wildlife Hospital, and WA Wildlife—private donors, and Murdoch University research staff.
