Media Release: 25 July 2011

POSSUM BIRTH CONTROL PLAN IN CURTAIN SQUARE

In an attempt to ‘control’ possum numbers, Yarra City Council have announced their plan to restrict “the fertility of possums in North Carlton’s Curtain Square aimed at reducing the park’s possum population and reviving its unhealthy trees”.

The issue in Curtain Square has developed over time and is not simply an over population of brushtail possums. Degradation of natural habitat and indigenous flora along with introduced predators severely reduces the delicate balance that supports native wildlife. In the urban environment this dilemma has been escalating with the brushtail possum rising to the position of the dominant species.

Brushtail possums are territorial creatures and they have a strong population structure. When that structure is destroyed, there is a window of opportunity for other resident possums from nearby areas to invade the area with the potential to create further problems with fighting and confusion with the remaining animals. When dominant males are removed, the reproduction patterns can also be altered encouraging an increase in population.

Therefore culling is not a solution and birth control, while not ideal is at least a short term measure until the other strategies to be implemented like indigenous plantings containing adequate food sources for wildlife, are complete.

The findings of the consultative group for Curtain Square agreed that the damage to the trees was not solely attributable to the possums, age of the trees, construction of pathways damaging roots, drought and other factors are all components.

We understand that people try to do the right thing by feeding the ‘park possums’ bread, fruit etc, however these are not a native food source and interfere with the possums’ digestive system, causing unnecessary problems. Furthermore, the act of feeding the possums unnaturally humanises them, making them more vulnerable to predators. Introducing practices that promote a healthy ecosystem, is a more sustainable, humane and long term solution. We should be encouraging the planting of indigenous flora to ensure a natural food source for our native wildlife. Appreciating the beauty, uniqueness and importance of our precious wildlife should be encouraged at all levels of society.

Wildlife Victoria is a not for profit organisation. We operate a 24 hour Emergency Phone Service to rescue sick, injured and orphaned wildlife. Through a network of volunteer wildlife carers, rescuers, transporters, emergency services, government agencies and commercial operators, we facilitate wildlife rescues ranging from orphaned ducklings to injured adult kangaroos. The Emergency Phone Number is 13 000 94535 (13 000 WILDLIFE).

For further information, please contact:

Amy Amato, Wildlife Victoria

0404 847 022

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