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Invasive Species
Compiled by Penny Olsen, Andrew Silcocks and Michael Weston and Birds Australia, Supplement to 'Wingspan' (Vol. 16, No. 4)
December 2006
For printed copies of the report contact Birds Australia (e-mail: mail@birdsaustralia.com.au, telephone: 03 9882 2622) or the Department of the Environment and Heritage Community Information Unit (e-mail: ciu@deh.gov.au, telephone: 1800 803 772).
The state of Australia's birds presents an overview of the status of Australia's birds, the major threats they face and the conservation actions needed. This fourth report in the SOAB series presents examples of just a few of the issues and opinions concerning invasive species in Australia, particularly as they relate to birds. Australia has hundreds of invasive plants and animals, both native and introduced. Some were brought purposely, others hitchhiked; the majority have taken the many opportunities offered by human alteration of the landscape. Invasive species are considered to be the greatest threat to biodiversity after habitat loss; they also exact a massive toll on agricultural production. Invasive species are widely regarded as second only to habitat loss as the greatest threat to birds.
The problems are complex and the management options limited. Yet, only rarely is the real impact of invasive species known. Further, the effectiveness of control actions against invasives is seldom measured in terms of the reduction in the environmental or economic damage caused.
To comment on the report, visit Birds Australia .