The Australian Capital Territory’s government has proposed including a further 380 animals to the capital’s official list of pests. This would restrict ownership of these species to all except those able to secure the proper licensing.
Commonly kept species such as European Goldfinches, Indian Ringneck Parrots, and Alexandrine Parrots may be affected by the proposed changes. In total, 77 previously exempt bird species will now require a permit.
Environment Minister Mick Gentleman said the update was taking place to bring Canberra’s biosecurity protocols in line with other states to help pursue a national management approach.
“I have also resolved to list feral horses as an introduced and invasive species, reflecting the harm they cause to our environment,” Mr Gentleman said.
This puts him at odds with his counterparts in NSW, where brumbies in Kosciuszko National Park have been granted heritage status, essentially limiting their control to non-lethal methods.
“Invasive animals have a significant impact on the ACT’s environment, economy and the community, with the ACT government spending over $1 million annually to control these species,” Mr Gentleman said.
The proposals are currently open to public comment on the ACT Government’s YourSay website. The full list of affected species is also available for viewing at that link.