By Abbey Cannan
A Noosa wildlife rescuer is calling for warning signs for the public after a brush turkey was mauled to death by a dog in Hastings Street.
Goetz Schweinfurth was called by the manager of Aromas Restaurant & Bar Noosa on Sunday afternoon after they saw the attack.
“The owners of the dog did not have it on a lead and children and patrons were all very distressed and upset,“ Goetz said.
“The manager of Aromas rang me, as I do all the wildlife in the area, and I raced across and we found the seriously injured female turkey in the Sebel car park entrance.
“It was still alive but died in my lap on route to the vet. It was so sad. I gave it a burial in the Noosa Woods.“
Goetz said it wasn’t the dog’s fault as the owners needed to have a leash on the dog.
“Some people down at the dog beach actually enjoy it when their dog runs after a turkey and they think it’s funny,“ he said.
“I just want to get the message out there that this keeps happening and no one seems to care.
“We need more informational signs. It’s about educating the public.“
Wildlife roams freely across Noosa Shire and is continually at risk from cars, dogs and other animals.
Council’s Principal Environment Officer Peter Milne said it’s impossible to erect warning signage in every location across the shire.
“Wildlife such as brush turkeys are continually on the move, particularly during certain months and not always in the same location as the signs,” he said.
“We urge people to be respectful of the wildlife and remind dog owners about their responsibilities to keep their pets under control at all times,” Mr Milne said.
Local Laws officers can issue a $266 on the spot fines for non compliance, however fines of over $2600 can be imposed if the matter goes before the courts.
Council has recently erected a sign at a Hastings Street location where the albino brush turkey is known to habitat, to provide educational information and heighten awareness about the animal.
If people see a pelican, seabird, other wildlife injured or ill they can contact Goetz Schweinfurth on 0466 307 536 or phone 1300ANIMAL.
