WHAT FERAL ANIMAL HAS THE GREATEST IMPACT ON AUSTRALIAN NATIVE WILDLIFE?

Australian native wildlife is currently facing threats by the invasion of feral animals into their environment. With research over the last few decades recognition of “the feral menace” has increased the understanding of impact and begun steps to control or reduce impact. This unit begins by introducing 6 feral animals and asking students to recognise the animal that is currently considered to be the animal which, in its feral state, is the main killer of native wildlife. Initially most students are unlikely to select the top predator and many will be rather surprised because they know this animal in its domestic situation and will not regard it as a major killer. However, there is a wide difference between the domestic and the feral situation. Concerns by native wildlife conservationists and those in the field working to deal with feral impacts have begun to have an impact on some local councils who recognise the need to control this domestic animal. The great debate has begun within local newspapers as the imminent legislation is proposing regulations on the ownership and control of this animal in its domestic situation. In the field actions to contain and control the animal in its feral status are facing mixed success. Find out which animal is now considered to earn the dubious title of “Australia’s top predator”. Contact the reasons why the animal is the cause of “the great debate”. Understand why control and the animal in the wild is extremely difficult. Use the provided attachments to join the debate and contact the feral issues. This unit can be used as an introduction on the origin and impact of feral animals. If you are looking for some hope about the control then the unit can be followed up with a unit entitled “Feral eradication on Lord How Island”. The other possibilities is to research other feral animals listed in the 6 on the opening page and mentioned in the following table.