Sutherland Shire: ‘Deliberate’ cockatoo poisonings across Gymea, Miranda, Grays Point

The discovery of more than 20 poisoned cockatoos in the Sutherland Shire has been met with outrage from the local community and calls for a crack down on “nature vandalism”.

The discovery of more than 20 poisoned cockatoos in the Sutherland Shire has been met with outrage from the local community and calls for a crack down on “nature vandalism”.

It comes after the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) confirmed at least 22 dead and sick sulphur-crested cockatoos were found by members of the public in Gymea, Miranda and Grays Point in the last three weeks.

Toxicology tests conducted at Taronga Zoo revealed the birds died after ingesting an agricultural insecticide known as Methomyl.

The EPA suspect the poisonings were deliberate as Methomyl is not suitable for residential use.

Newly elected Sutherland Shire councillor Kal Glanznig echoed frustrations expressed by fellow community members about the senseless loss of native wildlife in an area praised for its natural wonders.

A poisoned cockatoo rescued at Matong Place in Gymea Bay. Picture: EPA

Independent Shire councillor Kal Glanznig said the poisonings were “shocking”.

“It’s so sad to see this happening and if it is deliberate, which the EPA (have indicated), it is completely unacceptable,” Mr Glanznig said.

“One of the best things about our area is our natural environment and our wildlife, so it’s pretty shocking and upsetting to see this occur.

“Most people do the right thing and love our natural environment but it’s always a handful of people ruining it for the majority.”

The cockatoo poisonings come amid a sharp increase in tree poisonings across the region, with the Sutherland Shire singled out as one of the worst Sydney councils for “tree vandalism” in recent years.

When asked if the council’s tree vandalism policy could inspire similar protections for local wildlife, Mr Glanznig said change must begin with an attitude shift in areas where nature and residential life collide.

“I think it’s just trying to change the culture a bit and appreciating what makes this area great, and for a lot of people it’s the leafy green trees when you’re driving around or it’s our beaches and waterways,” he said.

“Once I do get sworn in (as councillor) on Thursday I will speak with the council staff and see what we can do to crack down on it (nature vandalism).”

The poisoned cockatoos were found with traces of Methomyl. Picture: EPA

A number of cockatoos were found sick or deceased by community members in Grays Point. Picture: Sutherland Shire Council

In response to the cockatoo poisoning events, Sutherland Shire Council confirmed it was working with environmental authorities to find those responsible.

“Council is assisting the EPA with their investigation and will continue to provide further information where possible to assist the EPA with their inquiries into this matter,” a council spokesperson said.

“While the deceased birds are not thought to pose a risk to those who come into contact with them, local residents are advised to avoid touching them and to report all suspicious bird deaths to the EPA.”