Can the recreational hunting of feral animals protect native wildlife?
We believe, in a strategic, multi-plan approach with recreational hunting playing a key role - not only in the control of introduced feral animals but in the sighting and reporting of feral pest numbers to the relevant authorities.
Approximately 20 species of mammals, 30 species of birds, 21 species of fish, 5 species of amphibians (water born, but later live on the land e.g. frogs), 500 species of invertebrates (animals without a backbone, e.g. insects), and 1500 species of plants have been introduced into the Australian environment since European settlement, and have multiplied dramatically in the wild.
A feral animal is defined as a domesticated or tame animal that escapes its domestic environment. These animals adapt and become wild and aggressive to the top of the food chain. An exotic animal is one that has been introduced into a new environment through a deliberate placement. These exotic animals were generally useful as sources of food or used for transportation.
Native flora and fauna will only have a chance at survival through education and awareness, teamed with a dedication in the actions of conservation hunting practices.
No one way is perfect, and we acknowledge that some people want to protect all species - introduced or not. But we are also realistic in our approach to conservation hunting. Australia is a country of feast and famine, all locked in a battle for survival. What mother nature gives, it also takes away though drought, fires, and floods.
To play a part in the balancing of the scales so our native species stand a fighting chance makes conservation hunting worth working towards.
It will be through this process that the destruction caused by these animals can begin to be resolved.
For more information on how you can help, visit the Feral Scan Website
The Pest Smart Website has some good information on pest animal species
http://www.pestsmart.org.au/pest-animal-species/
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Game Licenses are the responsibility of the hunters where needed for specific game. If in doubt, please contact the DPI in your state.
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