The impact of wildlife species on sheep production in Australia.

Abstract

Wildlife species of mammals and birds may compete with sheep for pasture or prey on flocks. The extent to which they do so determines whether they are pests which should be controlled. While the rabbit is an undoubted pest, there is much argument about the status of kangaroos as grazing competitors with sheep. Some people regard them as pests; others consider them as an important natural resource which should be harvested; and others, as unique animals which should be conserved for scientific, aesthetic and sentimental reasons. Predator species-fox, dingo, raven and wedge-tailed eagle-do not cause as much damage as is often claimed. Physiological and behavioural factors in lambs and ewes are more important than predators in causing mortalities. The traditional ad hoc approach in pest control should be replaced by one of “protective population management” based on an understanding of the ecology and behaviour of the pest species.