RIVERLAND councils are preparing a range of control activities to push flocks of a pest bird species out of the region.
The District Council of Loxton Waikerie and Berri Barmera Council will both undertake measures to disperse little corella within their respective council districts, as flock numbers increase over summer.
In a report to council’s December meeting, Berri Barmera Council compliance officer Michael Murtagh said corella populations in the district had increased significantly in recent years.
“Little corellas have been known to damage electrical cabling, new vine shoots, a variety of sports’ playing surfaces and assets in the region,” he said.
“Their ability to produce a significant amount of noise when in large flocks and their potential to spread disease makes the little corella a significant source of nuisance for the community.”
Berri Barmera Council staff will use bird fright bullets to scare off flocks in various areas across the district, including the Cobdogla Oval, Lake Bonney foreshore and Berri river front, while the District Council of Loxton Waikerie will undertake shooting for scaring flocks and culling in small numbers at roosting sites.
In a report to the District Council of Loxton Waikerie’s ordinary meeting, environmental services manager Cheryle Pedler said staff were taking steps to proactively address the problem.
“As expected for this time of the year, the numbers of little corella numbers are increasing in the region,” she said.
“The issue is not unique to our area, with councils across South Australia noting an increase in numbers.
“Whilst little corellas are a native species, they are not protected and are considered by many to be a pest.
“As a recognised abundant species, little corella can be legally destroyed by landowners on their private property, in accordance with a Code of Practice issued by the Department for Environment and Water.”
Berri Barmera Council will also use bird fright bullets to disperse ducks at the Hayden Stoeckel Swimming Pool in Berri.