Help record Corella sightings
Corellas are an iconic part of the Wimmera landscape appreciated by many members of the community. However, as well as damaging crops, Corellas in Horsham cause damage to trees, buildings, recreational reserves and other assets.
Estimated damage of $33,000 per year to Council infrastructure is attributable to Corellas. In addition, Corella flocks damage private gardens and community infrastructure.
Historically, the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) have played a role in the management and control of Corellas. However, the
State Governments role has shifted to provision of information and advice, and not direct service delivery or direct ongoing control of problem wildlife. Responsibility for management of Corellas has been delegated to local government to facilitate.
Council has developed a Draft Corella Management Plan to inform future actions around Corella management. The Draft Corella Management Plan is now out for community consultation.
In preparation of the Draft Plan it became evident that there are gaps in documented information relating to Corella damage and specific behaviours of the Corellas that reside in Horsham and surrounds.
The community can assist by providing information about Corella activity via the Community Map. Council's website contains a link to the map where you can record information about Corella sightings. Clicking on the map records the location of the sighting.
A form then allows you to enter information about how many birds were present, what the birds were doing and what damage they were doing if any. You can also upload photos of Corella activity. Further instructions are on our website: http://bit.ly/ISeeCorellas2020
Manager of Regulatory Services, Lauren Conran is encouraging people to help Council map our Corella flocks.
"The ability to benchmark damage caused by Corellas is a key to effective future management. Damage will be the measure as to whether management techniques are effective. We will refine our Plan through the Corella season, between November and February/March, depending on seasonal conditions," Ms Coman said.
All enquiries regarding the Draft Plan and using the on-line community mapping tool can be directed to Ms Coman on 53829728 or email lauren.coman@hrcc.vic ov.au