Devastated residents of an east coast suburb have unleashed on the “horrible” individuals allegedly responsible for poisoning a cherished flock of local peacocks using what was suspected to be over-the-counter pesticides.
It’s a trend that appears to be increasing in prevalence in NSW and one that wildlife authorities have harshly condemned in recent weeks. In Ourimbah, on the state’s Central Coast, up to six birds have now perished from being poisoned in the last week — despite them inhabiting the town for years.
While most locals enjoy their presence, there are some that have branded their colourful neighbours “pests” over the birds’ tendencies to cause damage to gardens, crops, and vehicles due to their scratching and pecking behaviours.
The NSW Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is now in the middle of an investigation to try and determine the official cause of the peacocks’ deaths, and who is responsible.
In the last few weeks of December, the agency received several reports of dead and dying Australian white ibis in suburbs across southwest Sydney. While these incidents are believed to have been caused by a naturally occurring botulism neurotoxin that’s found in soil or water left to become stagnant, a series of separate mass mortalities involving other native species proved highly suspicious.
The EPA confirmed with Yahoo News that even when pesticides are discovered in toxicology reports, catching those responsible is a challenge.
Most residents enjoy the birds’ presence, but some have branded them a nuisance due to their messy tendencies and growing numbers. Source: ACA
“We work with specialists from other organisations, such as local councils, wildlife groups and NSW Government agencies, however, investigations can be challenging as it is often difficult to identify a source or suspect after suspected poisoning events have occurred,” it told Yahoo earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Ourimbah, the EPA’s Director of Operations David Gathercole said using such poisons on animals in which they were not made for is “harmful” for both our wildlife the wider community.
“We found up to six peacocks had been killed, and at this stage we suspect a poisoning,” Gathercole told A Current Affair. “Targeting species that are not appropriate for that pesticide, harms wildlife and sometimes the community.”
Locals also labelled the move “cruel”. “[It’s] horrifying,” a local woman told ACA. “They’re not very street smart—but they’re beautiful birds and they don’t cause any harm.” “We like seeing them around. Their feathers are pretty,” another local said.
Six birds have now been found dead in the area due to what the EPA suspects was over-the-counter pesticides. Source: ACA
Steep penalties in place for inappropriate use of pesticides
In NSW, peafowls are not officially listed as a declared pest species, but they can be problematic in some areas where they have established feral populations. In certain parts of the state, particularly rural and suburban communities, the birds can be a nuisance due to their ability to cause property damage.
They scratch gardens, dig up plants, and leave droppings, which can damage landscaping and outdoor areas. Their loud calls, especially during mating season, have been known to disrupt residents.
And, peacocks can become territorial and aggressive, particularly during breeding season, which can pose challenges for humans and pets. Nevertheless, the use of unregistered pesticides or using any pesticide that harms non-target animals or plants can attract eye-watering fines of up to $500,000 for individuals and $2,000,000 for corporations.
“To help safeguard wildlife from harm, we engage with landowners, community members and industry to educate them about the risks associated with improper chemical or pesticide use,” the EPA explained in a statement.
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