A Sulphur-crested Cockatoo was illegally trapped from the wild in Delegate recently and the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) reminds everyone that this is a serious offence.
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The maximum penalty for trapping and keeping native wildlife is $11,000 or two years prison.
NPWS Area Manager, Franz Peters said under the National Parks and Wildlife Act of 1974 native animals must not be trapped from the wild.
“If people wish to keep native animals as pets they should ring our licensing unit on 02 9585 6406 to see which animals may be kept, who can sell them legally, and how to get a wildlife licence if one is required,” Mr Peters said.
“Some native birds may be bought, sold or kept without a licence but they must be obtained lawfully from licensed dealers and buyers are advised to keep their receipts as proof of a lawful purchase.”
The NSW Office of Environment and Heritage works to protect our natural environment, including wildlife. Mr Peters said the law related to all native wildlife, even those that had been rescued.
“If you find sick or injured birds or animals notify a local volunteer wildlife rehabilitation group, as these carers are authorised under an Office of Environment and Heritage licence.
“These groups have appropriate training and aim to release any orphaned or injured wildlife back to the wild.
“People with information about any illegal trapping should call Parks or the police.”
Volunteer wildlife groups in the Bombala area include Wildlife Information and Rescue Education Service (WIRES) on 1800 641 188 or 6495 4150, Looking After Our Kosciusko Orphans (LAOKO) on 64561313, and Wildlife Rescue South Coast (WRSC) on 0417 238 921.
