More than half Baldivis roos survive move

IN a WA first, the kangaroos in a Baldivis development have been relocated, but here were some casualties.

At a 60 per cent survival rate more than half survived the journey to the state forest.

Baldivis MLA Reece Whitby said the relocation of about 150 western grey kangaroos from the Paramount Estate development site to State forest had been completed.

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“We know as a community that the welfare of the kangaroos was always the top priority,” he said.

“The relocation was overseen by a veterinarian and DBCA wildlife officers and scientists were also closely involved.

“Unfortunately, kangaroos are highly prone to a condition known as capture myopathy and despite best efforts, about 40 per cent of the kangaroos died during the relocation operation or needed to be humanely euthanised by a veterinarian.

“Twenty-three kangaroos have had GPS or radio tracking collars fitted, which will allow DBCA scientists to monitor their movements over the next 12 months.

“The relocation and post-release monitoring project is the first of its kind in WA and, while the survival rate is disappointing, the outcome will help better inform the way we approach kangaroo issues in future.

“I want to thank all those in our community who advocated strongly for the kangaroos and were against a cull.”