The Issue

South Australia’s natural resources are under threat from pest animals across the state. Pest animals are animals which pose a risk to indigenous species, ecosystems, agricultural systems and/or human health and safety. They can be introduced species which have escaped ownership, management or control of people and are living and reproducing in the wild, or they can be over-abundant native species which have benefited from altered food and water resources.

The impacts of pest animals can be far reaching across terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. They decrease biodiversity, reduce conservation values and the productivity and sustainability of industries which rely on those ecosystems and pose risks to community health and amenity values.

Native plants and animals have evolved together over millions of years. When introduced animals arrive they can exploit native species in new ways. This can throw ecosystems out of balance and even lead to the extinction of native species. Impacts of pest animals include trampling native vegetation, breaking up soil layers, spreading diseases and pathogens, degrading crops and water resources, killing or injuring native and farmed animals, and competing with native and farmed animals for food and shelter.

What You Can Do

Many people are working across South Australia to effectively manage pest animals and reduce their impact on our natural systems. Within each NRM region different programs are taking place to bring these pests under control. Contact your local NRM Board to find out how you can become involved.