Living with wildlife

Most wild animals are harmless but, occasionally, a few species can cause problems. It is good to remember that animals are only following their instincts and taking advantage of the opportunities available to them, just as we all do. Native animals are also legally protected.

As with most problems, some forethought or lateral thinking can avoid or solve them with minimal inconvenience, and often cost, to you. Best practice pest animal management involves understanding the nature and extent of the problem, planning your objective, taking action, monitoring the outcome and adapting your strategies based on their effectiveness.

If the problem is minor or occasional, you could consider tolerating it because of the many benefits of living with wildlife. However, if native animals continue to be pests, you may have to take action to minimise the damage they cause.

The ‘Living with wildlife’ information on this website is designed to help landowners understand their opportunities and obligations in relation to the management of nuisance problems caused by a small number of native animals. The Fauna Notes outline the more serious problems caused by various animals, background information and the best known solutions. As a landholder and member of the community it is prudent for you to become familiar with your obligations under the law. As far as possible, these obligations are outlined in the Fauna Notes. However, it is your responsibility to determine what the law says and to act within the law.

The following documents may assist you understand prevention and control of animals that can cause problems in Western Australia.