THE Sunshine Coast Council removed 335 feral dear from registered properties, as part of ensuring invasive species be kept to a minimum, to protect the region’s biodiversity.
The number for deers removed in 2023 is triple what it was in 2021, setting huge records to limit invasive species, which include Indian myna birds, foxes and rabbits.
Environment Portfolio Councillor Peter Cox said better technology and improving staff skill sets and teamwork meant feral deer could be detected and euthanised quickly.
“New and improved thermal scopes mean our team can work during the night without stressing the animal or dispersing the herd, all while improving safety to livestock,” he said. “We’ve also seen an increase in private properties registered for deer control activities in the past year, as more landholders recognise the safety and effectiveness of this control program.”