June 3, 2013
Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service has begun using aerial baiting to control feral pigs in the Bunya Mountains National Park.
QPWS Area Manager Brett Roberts said QPWS had been managing feral pigs intensively in the Bunyas since 2010, and last month added aerial baiting to the methods used.
“We use remote cameras to check for feral animal activity, and to identify pig hot spots,” Mr Roberts said
“These locations are mapped, and baits are dropped at the hot spots from a helicopter. These are specifically designed for pigs, which reduces the risks to other native wildlife.
“We notified neighbours about the baiting and put up warning signs at track entrances and park noticeboards.
“QPWS has also been trapping feral pigs intensively for the last four months throughout the park and has so far removed 18 pigs.
“The pigs have been trashing the walking tracks as they look for grubs and roots. They are also damaging the ‘balds’ – open grassy areas – that the Bunyas are famous for.
“Feral pigs would also be threatening other plant communities, and spreading weeds and potentially diseases. They disturb soil, increase turbidity in waterways and destroy agriculture.
“Pigs have only become a major problem on the mountains in the recent good rainfall seasons.
“The Burnett Mary Regional Group has contributed $20,000 to the current program through its Caring for Country – Healthy Habitats program, and QPWS has invested about $30,000 in-kind support.
“QPWS is spending $4.5 million statewide in 2012–13 to meet its legislative and good neighbour responsibilities to control feral pests and weeds.”
