Vermin Species and Management
The fragile balance of wildlife at Big Swamp is significantly threatened by the impact of vermin species and uncontrolled domestic pets. For example, foxes have been observed at Big Swamp and can have a devastating impact on the population of birds and turtles. City of Bunbury together with FOBS are seeking to monitor and control this problem.
Similarly, feral cats have a devastating impact on Big Swamp wildlife. Just as significant is the impact of local pet cats that are allowed to roam, or are not contained inside the home at night. Unsupervised pet dogs sometimes also roam the Big Swamp habitat and cause destruction to wildlife and nests.
These problems are particulary severe during the breeding season where animals may be nesting or have very vulnerable young such as cygnets (baby swans) or other baby birds. The nests of Long Necked Turtles are very vulnerable as the eggs incubate undefended in the nest for between 26-41 weeks, and baby turtles emerge into life on their own and quite defenceless. Unfortunately, many nests have been destroyed in the past by being dug up by local dogs.
Another problem is domestic ducks, birds, fish or other animals being released into the Big Swamp habitat. Domestic ducks for example, compete for food and nesting sites and can introduce disease and other problems into the wild populations.
Similarly, feral cats have a devastating impact on Big Swamp wildlife. Just as significant is the impact of local pet cats that are allowed to roam, or are not contained inside the home at night. Unsupervised pet dogs sometimes also roam the Big Swamp habitat and cause destruction to wildlife and nests.
These problems are particulary severe during the breeding season where animals may be nesting or have very vulnerable young such as cygnets (baby swans) or other baby birds. The nests of Long Necked Turtles are very vulnerable as the eggs incubate undefended in the nest for between 26-41 weeks, and baby turtles emerge into life on their own and quite defenceless. Unfortunately, many nests have been destroyed in the past by being dug up by local dogs.
Another problem is domestic ducks, birds, fish or other animals being released into the Big Swamp habitat. Domestic ducks for example, compete for food and nesting sites and can introduce disease and other problems into the wild populations.
How You Can Help
Local residents can play a very positive role in the wellbeing of Big Swamp wildlife, simply by ensuring that any pet cats and dogs are controlled at all times and contained to the home at night. Pet cats should always be kept inside between dusk and dawn as they are all nocturnal hunters. If you are a cat owner living near Big Swamp, please ensure your cat is not able to freely go outside of your home at night, even if you believe this is just to your backyard.
Dogs are welcome at Big Swamp as it is a lovely place to walk, however they are permitted only on the perimeter paths and must be on a leash at all times. They are not permitted on any of the boardwalk areas. The City of Bunbury website provides a useful map of all dog exercise areas and permissions around Bunbury.
Your help in making the Big Swamp a safe home and refuge for wildlife is greatly appreciated.
Dogs are welcome at Big Swamp as it is a lovely place to walk, however they are permitted only on the perimeter paths and must be on a leash at all times. They are not permitted on any of the boardwalk areas. The City of Bunbury website provides a useful map of all dog exercise areas and permissions around Bunbury.
Your help in making the Big Swamp a safe home and refuge for wildlife is greatly appreciated.