Community
26 July, 2024
Council urges caution around roos on Mt Leura
CAMPERDOWN residents who walk in the Mount Leura and Mount Sugarloaf Reserves are being reminded to take care as kangaroo sightings within the reserve increase.
The 39-hectare volcanic reserve is popular with walkers and dog-walkers alike and is home to a wide variety of wildlife.
Corangamite Shire Council environment officer Jess Maxwell said a large male kangaroo had been startling some walkers on Mt Leura recently.
“The reserve is a beautiful piece of bush. That’s why so many people love going there - to get in touch with nature right on the edge of town,” she said.
“We have to remember that the bush is home for animals and birds. People and our pets are just visitors.
“If a kangaroo doesn’t want to move off path when you want to get past, a confrontation can occur.
“You can walk in a different direction or come back another time.”
Ms Maxwell encouraged dog walkers to keep their pets on a lead if kangaroos are present.
“They are a protected species and there are fines if your dog attacks one” she said.
“We have heard reports of dogs being walked off-lead that have been chasing wildlife.
“It is a legal responsibility to keep your dog under control at all times.”
Council has encouraged residents to take care around kangaroos, particularly around dawn and dusk as that is the time kangaroos are most active.
Walkers are reminded to not walk directly towards kangaroos, especially if they are making growling or clucking noises.
To reduce the risk of a kangaroo attack, walkers are warned not to stand tall, stare or hold their arms out towards kangaroos and to keep their distance.
Dog walkers are reminded to ensure their dog stays away from kangaroos as they will defend themselves against dogs, which can put both animal and owner at risk of injury.
Council also warns of particular behaviours to watch out for and advises keeping distance if any of those behaviours are seen.
This includes males flexing at each other, or engaging in sparring or fighting, as well as mating and courtship behaviours such as sniffing, touching and males moving around with females.
Kangaroos breed year-round, meaning joeys can be seen with their mothers – council advises to not get between mothers and their joeys.
Council local laws officers patrol the area and enforce local laws relating to dogs being on lead in the reserves and owners picking up dog droppings.
Owners are also reminded about the potential risk to their pet by snakes and other wildlife if they are not on a lead.
For more information about council’s local laws or to report an incident relating to dogs, or for more information about the Mount Leura and Mount Sugarloaf Reserves, call the council on 5593 7100.