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Kangaroos after a free meal and please don’t feed the ducks

Media release: 18 September 2014

Visitors to Little Bay picnic area in Arakoon National Park are being warned to be aware of eastern grey kangaroos seeking a free meal after several people were harassed at Overshot Dam.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Macleay Area Manager Mr Russell Madeley said the kangaroos have learnt that bags of bread or other food visitors use to feed the ducks can mean a tasty treat.

 “Kangaroos are large and powerful wild animals and this is their home”, Mr Madeley said.

“They act on instinct and are capable of seriously injuring people”, he said.

“Human food such as bread and biscuits is not good for wild animals of any kind.

“Visitors should not attempt to feed the kangaroos or the ducks for their own safety and the wellbeing of the wildlife”, he said.

“Attempting to hand-feed animals can make them sick or dependant on humans and can cause aggressive behaviour.

“It is easy to have enjoyable encounters with wildlife, watching them feeding naturally from a safe distance.”

Follow these simple guidelines to reduce the risk of kangaroo attack:

  • Supervise children at all times
  • Keep your distance from kangaroos
  • Never feed or interact with a kangaroo
  • Do not walk directly toward a kangaroo, stand up tall, stare or hold your arms out – these actions say you want to fight.
  • Watch where you walk so that kangaroos are not startled or cornered.

If you feel threatened by a kangaroo, retreat in a crouched or crawling position to a safe distance.

If you are under attack, do the Roo Roll - drop to the ground and curl up into a ball with your hands protecting your face and throat.

Teach children how to behave near kangaroos and to do the Roo Roll if a kangaroo displays aggressive behaviour towards them.

Report any incidents involving kangaroos to the National Parks and Wildlife Service office in Arakoon or telephone 6566 6621.

Contact: Lawrence Orel

Page last updated: 18 September 2014