Dog walkers: please be mindful of our wildlife

Dog walkers: please be mindful of our wildlife

Published on 16 July 2024

Camperdown residents are fortunate to have Mt Leura and Mt Sugarloaf Reserves right on their doorstep.

The 39-hectare volcanic reserve is home to an array of native wildlife, which walkers can often encounter along the network of trails within the reserve. 

Corangamite Shire Environment Officer Jess Maxwell said a large male kangaroo had been startling some walkers on Mt Leura.

“The reserve is a beautiful piece of bush. That’s why so many people love going there, to get in touch with nature right on the edge of town.

“We have heard reports of dogs being walked off-lead that have been chasing wildlife.”

“It is a legal responsibility to keep your dog under control at all times.

“We have to remember that the bush is home for animals and birds. People and our pets are just visitors.

“If a kangaroo doesn’t want to move off path when you want to get past, confrontation. You can walk in a different direction or come back another time.”

Ms Maxwell encouraged dog walkers to keep their pets on a lead if kangaroos are present.

“They are a protected species and there are fines if your dog attacks one” she said.

Here are some tips about how to stay safe around kangaroos:

Don’t walk directly towards a kangaroo. Don’t stand up tall, stare or hold your arms out towards a kangaroo. If kangaroos that are engaged in courtship or mating behaviour, eg males sniffing, touching or moving around with females, give them plenty of space—and privacy. If male kangaroos are sparring, fighting or flexing at each other, stay well out of their way. Keep your distance from a kangaroo that is growling or clucking. Don’t come between a mother and her joey. Keep your dog away from kangaroos. Kangaroos will vigorously defend themselves against dogs, and this may put you and your canine mate in danger. Kangaroos may crossroads at any time but take particular care at dusk and dawn when they are active and lighting is poor

Council Local Laws Officers patrol the area and enforce local laws relating to dogs being on lead in the reserves and owners picking up dog droppings.

Owners are also reminded about the potential risk to their pet by snakes and other wildlife if they are not on a lead.

For more information about Council’s Local Laws or to report an incident relating to dogs please call the Shire on 5593 7100.

For more information about the Mt Leura and Mt Sugarloaf Reserves, call Council on 5593 7100.