Published on Tuesday, 6 September 2022 at 10:19:29 AM
Are you familiar with our local wildlife? Do you know what you can do to help protect our important and endangered species?
One of the most vital contributions you can make is to ensure your dog is on the lead and under control, especially along the Avon River Trail, at this time of year.
York’s River Dwellers
The River Conservation Society has provided the following information about the activity along the river and how we can help protect our wildlife:
Water birds on the Avon River will be nesting from now until mid-summer, depending on the amount of water in the river. Water birds that nest in the water close to the riverbank include Eurasian Coot, Australasian & Hoary-Headed Grebe. Numerous species of ducks & cormorant as well as the occasional visiting pelican rest & sun themselves along the riverbank. There are also several wading birds that feed along the water’s edge & in the shallows such as White-faced Heron, Yellow-billed Spoonbill & Eastern Great Egret. Whilst the birds are nesting and feeding along the riverbanks & in the shallows, they are at risk of attack from uncontrolled dogs.
Off lead dogs can also have a devastating effect on the migratory Rainbow Bee Eaters that visit the York area over spring & summer. Rainbow Bee Eaters are particularly at risk, because they nest in burrows dug in sand & earth banks along the river. These burrows are often close to the walk trail where uncontrolled dogs will dig up & destroy the nests.
In recent years, River Conservation Society members have observed & filmed Rakali (Native water rat) at Mile Pool. Rakali are considered to Endangered in the Wheatbelt & are susceptible to dog attack while feeding on the riverbank. South-western snake-necked turtles also inhabit the area & dig nesting holes in the bank along the Avon Walk Trail which are often dug up & destroyed by dogs.
Be a responsible owner
All dogs are required to be on a leash when in a public area. Additionally, owners are required to clean up after their dog. Doggy bags are provided by the Shire and regularly replenished located at Avon Park, Peace Park, Monger Reserve Dog Exercise Area and the Dog Exercise Park adjacent to Candice Bateman Park.
Please do your bit to keep our community clean and our wildlife safe.
CHRIS LINNELL
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
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