Australians take pride in the country’s unique and diverse wildlife, often marvelling at the sight of native birds that grace the skies and fill neighbourhoods with their distinctive calls. However, a recent event has cast a shadow over this natural beauty, leaving city residents in a state of shock and sorrow.
More than 90 native birds were found dead or dying across the Newcastle region on a fateful Monday. The majority of these birds were corellas, a protected species known for their sociable nature and tendency to gather in large flocks. This isn’t the first time corellas have been the victims of mass mortality events, which have occurred in various states due to their flocking behaviour.
The grim discovery has prompted a swift response from Hunter Wildlife Rescue, whose first responders suspect poisoning as the likely cause. The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has been notified and is currently investigating the incident.
Kate Randolph, the acting head of Hunter Wildlife Rescue, expressed the emotional toll the event has taken on her team, stating that it has ‘really knocked everyone for a six.’ Despite the distress, her volunteers are working tirelessly to assist the affected birds.
The corellas have been found in various locations, including parks and a shopping centre in the suburb of Carrington, with additional reports coming from Newcastle and Hamilton. ‘They’re all over the neighbourhood. We’re getting calls from members of the public who are finding them in their front yards, they’re being found on ovals,’ Randolph explained.
The situation is dire. The lead veterinarian at WIRES has been working with Hamilton Veterinary Clinic, which is providing treatment for the birds. Unfortunately, most of the corellas are too sick to be treated, and for some, euthanasia is the only humane option.
‘They’re falling out of trees and they’re extremely weak. The majority have either blood or mucus coming out of their nostrils or in their droppings. They’re coming in at quite a late stage of distress,’ she said.
The community is reeling from the impact of these mass mortalities. Residents are expressing their devastation and horror as they witness the unfolding tragedy, describing it as ‘utterly devastating’ and ‘horrible.’
In an effort to manage the crisis, anyone who encounters a sick or dying bird is urged to contact rescuers at 0418 628 483 or take them to a vet, and ‘not to touch the birds with your hands’ when handling them due to their potential to deliver a ‘nasty bite.’ To safely pick them up, wrap a towel around them, instead.
The EPA is conducting a thorough investigation, collecting samples from the birds to rule out bird flu and inspecting locations for evidence of potential pesticide misuse. The negligent use of pesticides that harm non-target animals can result in severe penalties, with individuals facing fines of up to $500,000 and corporations up to $2,000,000.
This incident is not isolated. In January, the EPA confirmed several mass bird fatalities linked to the misuse of controlled poisons, affecting various species including cockatoos, ibis, magpies, ravens, and pigeons. It has been noted at least 14 suspected malicious poisonings of birds in the Greater Sydney region in 2024 alone, an alarming figure that underscores the gravity of the situation.
The EPA encourages anyone with information on this incident to come forward, emphasising the importance of protecting the country’s wildlife and holding those responsible accountable.
The suspected poisoning of corellas is a stark reminder of the fragility of our natural environment and the impact human actions can have on it.
We invite you, our YourLifeChoices readers, to share your thoughts and experiences regarding this distressing event. Have you noticed any changes in your local wildlife populations? Your insights are valuable.
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