Deer control program rids Royal of another 90 feral pests during June

THE ongoing deer control program in the Royal National Park has removed an additional 90 of the feral pests from remote areas through a targeted aerial control operation last month.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Area Manager Brendon Neilly said the June aerial shooting program conducted in the Royal National Park was the second after the first in November 2020.

“Following this latest success aerial operations will continue to be used as a routine technique for deer control in Royal National Park,” Mr Neilly said.

“The three-day operation included areas where deer have been observed grazing and trampling on native vegetation that is regenerating following a fire,” Mr Neilly said.

“Controlling feral deer in the park is a critical priority for NPWS to minimise the impact on native species, including on the swamps and rainforests of the Park.

“Feral deer also present a public nuisance by feeding in residential gardens, emptying rubbish bins and are regularly involved in motor vehicle and railway incidents.

“Aerial shooting is a component of the NSW wildlife conservation bushfire recovery (medium term response) plan supported by the NSW Government.

“Locally, NPWS is working alongside neighbours and other land managers to minimise the impact of feral deer on the environment and the community by undertaking routine coordinated operations.

“All pest management operations in Royal National Park are undertaken by highly experienced staff and adhere to strict guidelines relating to safety and animal welfare.

“Visitors are reminded to check NPWS alerts webpage for up to date information on track or precinct closures prior to visiting the park.

Statewide the NPWS has removed more than 35,000 feral animals as part of its post 2019–20 bushfires feral animal control program. The largest in the NPWS history.

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