Motorists urged to be alert for native wildlife over the holidays

Environment Minister Andrew Powell has urged motorists to be on the lookout for wildlife while driving over the holiday period.

Mr Powell said Queensland’s wildlife is very active at this time of year and drivers need to be vigilant.

“Our native wildlife is part of what makes Queensland great and no-one wants to see any harm come to any animals,” Mr Powell said.

“Everyone needs to keep watch, especially at blind spots like corners and crests of hills, as wildlife can dash out onto the road.

“This can have serious and tragic consequences for drivers as well as leading to the painful death of the animals.

“We know there are kangaroos in large numbers particularly in western Queensland.

“Up north people need to be on the lookout for cassowaries, and in the South East animals like koalas can also make their way onto our highways and motorways.”

“Between July 2012 and July 2013, there were 477 koalas reportedly hit by vehicles.

“The Newman Government recognises that the decline of koala populations in Queensland is a significant issue which is why we have delivered more than $280,000 to 11 koala care organisations for a diverse range of projects.

 “In North Queensland, people driving between Townsville and Cooktown are more likely to come into contact with cassowaries.

“Seven cassowaries were struck by vehicles in 2012/13. Thankfully none of these accidents were fatal for the drivers, but they did all result in the death of the birds.

“This may not seem like a large number, but the southern cassowary is already in decline and is listed as endangered so every vehicle strike can have a severe flow on effect on the species.

“People can report dead or injured wildlife as soon as possible by phoning  the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection on 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625).”

[ENDS] 23 December 2013

Media contact: Lynette Keep 0419 620 299