12th August 2016
Relocation not Extermination for Penrith Anglican College Kangaroos
There has been a justifiable outcry against plans by the Penrith Anglican College to ask the NPWS to kill 15 healthy male kangaroos selected from an existing mob of kangaroos that live and range between the school’s 40 acres and the adjacent Orchard Hills RAAF base.
In response Mark wrote a letter to the Principal of the school detailing that there is non-lethal methods of removal that have been long tried and tested. Given the emails and phone calls that our office have received over the last few days, we are sure that many of the parents and students of the school would be relieved to know that there are options available that do not include the slaughter of our native animals. In addition Mark asked a question of the Minister for Environment regarding the issue of the kill permits and assessment process.
Claims of kangaroo over-population are untested and given that there have been no recorded instances of aggression or injuries caused by these kangaroos, it is a massive over-reaction by the school to seek NPWS permits for the killing of these native animals.
With 40 acres of grounds, it would seem not unreasonable to allow a defined area for habitat and erect fencing to prevent the students from coming into close contact with the kangaroos. If that is not possible, then a program of tranquilliser darting of the kangaroos for removal and relocation is a far more humane method of managing the kangaroos than simply applying a death sentence. ‘Remote chemical capture and release’ has proven to be a very safe and effective way of relocating macropod populations.
What kind of message is the school sending to its students that killing healthy kangaroos is an acceptable form of native animal management? I am sure if we asked the students they would be open to a more humane solution.
LATEST UPDATE
Due to the public pressure and communication of concern from the Animal Justice Party it appears the mass grave pit has been filled in and talks are ongoing in regards to a relocation program. This is a sensible decision by the school and demonstrates that professional negotiations and respectful dialogue led by the Animal Justice Party can result in success for all involved.
