An investigation is underway after dozens of corellas were found dead along the Wimmera River in western Victoria.
Warning: This article includes content that may be distressing to some readers.
Over 50 deceased birds have been recovered near the river in Horsham, located approximately three and a half hours northwest of Melbourne. Agriculture Victoria confirmed it began looking into the incident on Tuesday.
Corellas, a species of white cockatoo native to Australia, are typically found near waterways and can live up to 20 years in the wild.
A spokesperson from Agriculture Victoria said the Conservation Regulator is also involved in the investigation.
Suspected poisoning
The inquiry was launched following a report from Horsham Rural City Council to the state’s environment department. A council representative indicated the deaths may have resulted from illegal poisoning.
Glenn Coffey, co-owner of Horsham Riverside Caravan Park, said council staff were collecting scattered seed from the area.
“There were dead cockies everywhere,” Mr. Coffey observed. “It’s really upsetting, especially with families staying at the park. It’s hard to believe someone would go as far as poisoning.”
He noted that the area is frequented by dogs, ducks, and other waterbirds.
Although the council has urged residents to avoid the riverfront while the investigation continues, the area has not been officially closed to the public.
“We’ll share further updates as they come,” the council posted on social media.
Authorities have asked the public not to handle any dead or sick birds and to report sightings of five or more to the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action.
