Native Fauna Awareness

Native fauna awareness in spring

Spring is the most active time for native animals of all descriptions – snakes, turtles and birds of all types are looking for food, breeding and raising young.

Turtles

September to February is turtle breeding season. Keep an eye out for Southwestern Snake-necked Turtles on roads and paths, particularly surrounding wetland areas, to avoid harming hatchlings.

Magpies

August to October is nesting season for magpies and occasionally male magpies become territorial to protect their young and may swoop if they think the nest or offspring are in danger. If you are swooped by a magpie, stay calm, don’t run and avoid looking towards swooping birds. If outdoors during nesting season wear a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect the face and eyes. Avoid areas with territorial magpies.

To assist residents and visitors, the City encourages the public to report incidents involving territorial magpies which will be added to a register and available on the City’s website.

Snakes

In early spring, snakes such as dugites and tiger snakes become more active looking for food, breeding and basking in the sun to warm up. If a snake finds its way into your house remain calm (to avoid disturbing it), do not attempt to catch or kill it. If you find a snake in a garden or a house, contact Wildcare Helpline on 9474 9055 to be referred to a reptile remover.

Take care when visiting parks and playgrounds and check surroundings for the presence of snakes before allowing children to play.

All native fauna are protected species under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016. For further information on the beautiful native animals that can be found within the City, check out the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions’ website.