First Penguin Deaths from Avian Influenza Reported in Antarctica The deadly H5N1 bird flu virus has been found in gentoo penguins for the first time in Antarctica. Several gentoo penguins tested positive for the virus in the Falkland Islands, with additional suspected cases in king penguins in South Georgia. This discovery raises concerns as penguins already face threats from climate change, pollution, and commercial fishing. The impact of the virus on Antarctic penguin populations is still uncertain, but measures are being taken to monitor and investigate the situation.