Lamb deaths drive farmer raven mad
A MORIAC farmer is concerned more of his lambs will be attacked by crows due to a red tape impasse.
Daniel Briggs has claimed Australian ravens preyed on two of his newborn lambs in recent weeks, leading the farmer to apply to cull the protected but commonplace birds. Mr Briggs noticed an increase in ravens flocking around the district and said he was shocked to see several of his young livestock brutally pecked.
“There are two lambs I am certain have been killed by Australian ravens,” Mr Briggs said. “There are several more which have been attacked by ravens. They are a protected species given they’re a native bird. Usually it’s foxes that are the main predator for newborn lambs, but bird attacks do happen.”
The Moriac farmer recently sought an authority to control wildlife application through the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning.
“I’ve been told it could take four to six weeks for the application to be considered,” he said. “If it takes that long to process, there’s likely to be more livestock deaths on my farm.”
Meat and Livestock Australia lists crows and wedge-tailed eagles as predators of newborn lambs, although wild dogs, foxes and wild pigs commonly kill more livestock.
DELWP environmental compliance regional manager Courtney Johnson said the department recognised the concerns of Mr Briggs and would endeavour to respond in a timely manner.
“All native wildlife is protected in Victoria, and any wildlife control must be lawful, thoughtful and well planned,” she said.
“Authority to Control Wildlife applications can take up to six weeks for DELWP to process, during which time a forest and wildlife officer may inspect the property in question to assess the damage being caused by wildlife.
“Staff have been made aware of Mr Briggs’ experience so that we can continue to improve our customer service,” Ms Johnson said.