Coorong District Council Little Corella Management Plan

Published 5th February 2024
Media Release

Coorong District Council is taking steps to control Little Corella numbers in areas of the Council district this season. Little Corellas have already caused considerable damage to trees, parks and playing fields in the Coorong District Council area over the past nine years, and numbers are again beginning to increase in townships.

Coorong District Council will be undertaking control measures in Tailem Bend, Meningie, Coonalpyn and Wellington East over the next few months to manage the increasing numbers of Little Corellas currently infesting the townships within the district. This will assist with the restoration of a healthy balance between wildlife, people, property, and to protect the environment.

Council-trained staff will be undertaking bird scaring activities in the first instance, and a professional Bird Pest Controller will undertake humane culling activities on Council land if necessary.

People are advised that these activities may take place over the course of the day commencing from 7am and involve the use of portable gas guns and controlled firearms. Pet owners and parents are asked to ensure you are prepared for some disruption within townships with the use of firearms.

Council can assure residents that these activities will be undertaken with the safety of the community being its first priority, and with minimal distress to the birds involved. Relevant authorities have been notified of these activities taking place.

Mayor Paul Simmons said while no area is immune, the Little Corellas find the Lower Murray and Lakes a perfect habitat to live, and the numbers continue to rise and increase each year with Meningie, Wellington East, Tailem Bend along with Coonalpyn residents affected the most.

“Little Corellas have a significant impact on our community and environment, causing extensive damage and destruction to trees, reserves and infrastructure”, says Mayor Paul Simmons.

“The management of the Little Corellas is complex and emotive, and each year Council continues to monitor and implement appropriate control measures when appropriate."

It is expected that Council will continue with the Little Corella Management plan until early April.

For further information relating to these activities, please contact Council’s General Inspector, Michael Vivian on 1300 785 277.

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Contact:

Bridget Mather
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER | COORONG DISTRICT COUNCIL
Phone: 1300 785 277 | E: bmather@coorong.sa.gov.au