Appeal launched after more than 20 cockatoos found sick or dead from ‘deliberate’ poisoning in Sydney’s south

A major probe has been launched after 20 iconic Aussie birds were found sick or dead in a suspected “deliberate” poisoning.

More than 20 cockatoos have been found sick or dead with in what environmental authorities suspect is a “deliberate” poisoning in Sydney’s south.

The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has raised the alarm after at least 22 Sulphur-crested cockatoos were found sick or dead by members of the public over the last three weeks.

The cockatoos had high levels of an insecticide in their system. Picture: Adrian Bohl.

The birds were found across Gymea, Gymea Bay, Miranda and Grays Point, with NSW EPA Director Operations Julian Thompson confirming high levels of methomyl — an insecticide toxic to birds used for agriculture crops — were found in the birds’ systems.

“The killing of birds, whether through intentional or reckless misuse of pesticide, is a serious offence and we are working to find the source of the poison,” Mr Thompson said.

“Methomyl isn’t suitable for use in home gardens, which raises the question whether this was deliberate.

“Under the Pesticides Act, it is illegal to use pesticides to kill or harm non-target animals such as native birds.”

The poisoned birds were found across Gymea, Gymea Bay, Miranda and Grays Point. Picture: Supplied

Mr Thompson said the birds were in “significant distress after the poisoning” according to reports from members of the public to NSW Wildlife Information Rescue and Education Service (WIRES) volunteers.

Members of the public have been advised not to pick up the sick birds, but instead place an upside-down washing basket over the bird for its protection and call WIRES.

The EPA is working alongside WIRES, Sutherland Shire Council, National Parks and Wildlife Service and Taronga Zoo.

Anyone with information advised to come forward to the EPA.

Originally published as Appeal launched after more than 20 cockatoos found sick or dead from ‘deliberate’ poisoning in Sydney’s south