The NPWS is investigating the death of around 20 cockatoos near Creewah.
SOME 20 cockatoos were found dead last month in the Creewah area, and the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) urges anyone with information about this unexplained bird kill event to come forward.
NPWS Ranger for Bombala, Sarah Ferguson says cockatoos and all other native animals are protected under the NSW Wildlife Act and it is illegal to harm them without a licence.
“Our investigation near Creewah was inconclusive but the evidence suggests these cockatoos may have been poisoned, either accidentally or intentionally,” Ms Ferguson said.
“If people demonstrate cockatoos or other native animals are causing economic hardship then Parks can issue a licence to reduce numbers, but this must be done humanely and under strict conditions.”
Ms Ferguson said cockatoos sometimes become a nuisance in cities and rural settings by damaging buildings or crops and she encouraged people frustrated by the animals to contact Parks.
“If these birds were intentionally poisoned the person responsible could face fines up to $11,000 per offence and possible imprisonment for harming native wildlife.
“These 20 birds may have come in contact with household or farm chemicals and we remind people to be extremely careful with hazardous substances.
“We urge anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or the Bombala Parks office on 6458 4080 and all calls will be treated as confidential.”
The Office of Environment and Heritage supports the community in working together to help protect and conserve native animals including cockatoos.