Updated
Scientists are cautiously optimistic about an
increase in numbers of little penguins in the Derwent Estuary after
recent dog attacks. Chicks are preparing to leave their nests near
Hobart and researchers are using special technology to keep an eye on
their progress. But they are warning dog owners to keep their pets
away from nests, after two terriers wiped out dozens of birds about a
year ago.
Researchers and volunteers from a range of groups have taken the penguins under their wing.
They have been busy building artificial burrows and concrete igloos and renovating nesting sites to help them bounce back. There have been ups and downs in the colonies but the Derwent Estuary program's Christine Coughanowr is hopeful the colony is rebuilding. "A couple of dogs got in in the night time and killed about 25 penguins, which was about half of the breeding penguins at the site at the time," she said. "[We're using] weed control, re-vegetation, installation of burrows to assist with their secure breeding and also signage, fencing and other activities to ensure that the public's aware that they shouldn't bring pets into those areas."
Biodiversity officer Luke Einoder says people should also be careful about clearing on foreshore properties. "If we can all just give the penguins and other wildlife some space, then we can live and co-exist with them," he said.
If people want to see Little Penguins, he says a tour is the best option.
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