The issue of wildlife entanglement in everyday items is a pressing concern for Australia's native species, with devastating consequences. It's a problem that extends far beyond the backyard, affecting a wide range of animals, from flying foxes to kangaroos and platypuses. The impact of these entanglements is profound, often resulting in injury or death, and it's a growing crisis that demands attention and action.
One of the most alarming aspects of this issue is the widespread use of harmful items, such as barbed wire and large-aperture fruit netting, which are easily accessible and often overlooked. For instance, the use of barbed wire in rural areas has led to the entanglement of hundreds of kangaroos, causing severe injuries and even death. Similarly, the popular backyard netting, designed to protect fruit trees, has become a deadly trap for flying foxes, especially those with large mesh sizes that can easily ensnare their wings.
The consequences of these entanglements are dire. Flying foxes, for example, suffer from constriction, which leads to the slow death of their wings. This is particularly devastating for mothers and their pups, as the pup's death often leaves the mother struggling and exposed. The situation is equally dire for other species, with entanglements causing injuries and even mortality rates as high as 8% for platypuses in Victoria.
The good news is that many of these entanglements are preventable. Simple actions, such as using wildlife-friendly netting and fencing, can significantly reduce the number of native animals injured or killed. For instance, the use of smaller mesh sizes and cross-weave designs in fruit tree netting can prevent animals from getting caught. Additionally, the use of fruit tree protection bags, which leave some branches free for wildlife, is another effective measure.
The problem extends beyond the backyard, with aquatic debris and fishing gear posing a serious threat to wildlife, especially platypuses. Fishing line, in particular, is a major concern, as it can cause horrendous injuries and even death. The use of hair ties, often dropped in waterways, is also a growing problem, with elasticated ties being particularly dangerous due to their tendency to get swept along in the rain and end up in creeks.
Addressing this issue requires a multi-faceted approach. Governments and bat rescue organizations are running free 'net swaps' to replace lethal netting with wildlife-friendly alternatives. In Victoria, for example, over 600 lethal nets were surrendered last year, and 359 replacements were provided free of charge. Additionally, the installation of yellow bins at popular fishing spots in Western Australia has allowed fishers to safely dispose of unwanted fishing line and tackle, collecting over 250km of line.
The use of reflective or brightly colored poly tape or reflective discs can also make fences more visible to flying foxes, reducing the risk of entanglement. Furthermore, the public plays a crucial role in this crisis. By disposing of rubbish and fishing gear properly, and by retrieving and disposing of fishing line, individuals can significantly contribute to the reduction of entanglements.
In conclusion, the issue of wildlife entanglement in everyday items is a complex and urgent problem that requires a collective effort to address. By taking simple actions and adopting wildlife-friendly practices, we can make a significant difference in protecting Australia's native species from this deadly trap.
