Australia's native plants and animals adapted to life on an isolated continent over millions of years. Ever since European settlement our native species have had to compete with a whole new range of introduced animals. These new pressures have also caused a major impact on our country's soil and waterways. With an ever-growing human population and development of land, the bushland reserves we have left are even more important for our native plants and animals to survive in.
Council's Feral Animal Control Program
The objective for managing the majority of established feral animals is to reduce the damage caused by pest species in the safest, most humane and cost-effective manner.
There are several control methods available for feral animals. These methods include conventional control techniques and biological control. Conventional control methods for feral animals include trapping, baiting, and shooting. The only biological control employed by Council is the periodic release of the rabbit calicivirus.
Council adheres to the guidelines for humane treatment and removal during the implementation of any feral animal control program, such as those outlined in the relevant Threat Abatement Plan, as well as adhering to animal welfare requirements that apply to the State of NSW.
Lane Cove Council is also a member of the Urban Feral Animal Action Group (UFAAG), now known as Sydney North Vertebrate Pest Committee (SNVPC), which was established in 1998. The Action Group is comprised of key land management agencies of the Sydney North Region. The Committee aims to share information and raise awareness about urban feral animals, educate agency members and develop the skills required to effectively manage pest animals.