Dogs and protected areas don’t mix
Visitors to Kangaroo Island’s national parks and reserves this summer are being asked to remember that pets are not allowed in parks.
Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Ranger-in-Charge Caroline Paterson said on-the-spot fines applied.
“Dogs and other domestic pets can cause significant problems for the island’s native wildlife,” Miss Paterson said.
“They can spread disease and disturb important behaviours such as feeding, breeding and seasonal migration, so the most responsible option is to leave your dogs at home or book them into local kennels for the day when you intend to visit a park.
“For example, hooded plovers and pied oystercatchers nest on our beaches during summer, making shallow scrapes above the high-water mark for their eggs.
“Any disturbance can leave eggs or small chicks exposed to the elements or predators.”
Miss Paterson said there had been a number of incidents recently involving unrestrained dogs in protected areas or on protected beaches.
“Our protected areas are amazing places to explore all year round, as they provide wonderful opportunities to view wildlife in its natural habitat,” she said.
“We would love you to visit this summer to immerse yourself in our pristine natural places, but please leave your pets at home.
“By doing this, you can help safeguard the island’s threatened native species and help protect our wildlife’s habitat.”
Visit the Natural Resource Kangaroo Island website for further details about parks and places and download the parks of KI guide www.landscape.sa.gov.au or call the natural resources centre on 08 8553 4444 for further details.
