Antarctica’s Penguins Could Be Devastated by Avian Influenza

Antarctica’s penguins face a new threat as avian influenza, including a deadly strain of H5N1, looms closer to the continent. Scientists fear the devastating impact it could have on marine mammals and birds, with outbreaks already seen on islands near the Antarctic Peninsula. The interconnectedness of species in the Southern Ocean makes it likely that the virus will reach Antarctica, posing a significant risk to the continent’s wildlife.