Pest animals

Many non-native or introduced vertebrate animals have become established as unmanaged or feral populations across Australia. These animals have become pests locally or over wider areas. The reasons why they are pests include:

  • preying on domestic or farm animals
  • damaging crops and food production
  • posing a threat to native animals and ecosystems
  • being a nuisance and health hazard to people.

Some commonly kept animals have the potential to become pests if they are not managed or kept under licence or conditions. Some native animals are also potential pests in certain situations.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development manages pests in Western Australia through policy development, risk assessment, research and development, provision of technical advice and information, implementation of regulation, emergency response, property inspections, industry liaison, and the planning and coordination of significant species control/eradication programs.

For advice on pest animals search our website or contact our Pest and Disease Information Service (PaDIS).

Articles

  • This animal pest alert provides information on the identification, biology, and pest potential of the rusa deer in Western Australia.

  • Three species of feral deer are found in Western Australia: rusa, red and fallow. All 3 species are declared pests and need be reported.

  • This article provides information on the requirements for keeping fallow and red deer species in Western Australia.

  • Information on policy and management concerning vertebrate animals in Western Australia and risks of emerging pest animals.

  • This article provides information about the identification, biology and impact of the northern palm squirrel for Western Australia.

  • Foxes can cause significant losses to some agricultural producers. They also prey on many native animals. The best option is to control foxes before they become a problem.

  • Under the BAM Act, landholders - landowners and occupiers - are responsible for the control of foxes, wild dogs, feral pigs, rabbits and emus on their properties.

  • Feral pigs are the descendants of domestic pigs (Sus scrofa), which were first brought to Australia by early European colonists.

  • Feral pigs are the descendants of domestic pigs, which were first brought to Australia by early European colonists.

  • Bare patches and chewed plants radiating out from mouse burrows

    Mice are seasonal pests that can affect any crop. Usually they favour paddocks with high stubble retention.

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