I am very concerned with the increased visitation to Kellys
Swamp and the effect that this is having on the bird life. Quite obviously the
development that is going on in nearby Kingston will see much greater numbers
of visitors in the future, many of who appear to have no idea that Kellys Swamp
is such an important wetland for waterbirds and waders.
In the past, we have seen evidence of canoeing and dog
exercising in and around Kellys, and on father’s day Sunday afternoon I was
frustrated while birding by people walking in front of the hides and flushing
the birds. There was a game of cricket going on in the grass area near the
southern end of the swamp and children riding scooters at the north. It would
appear that the decision to cut the grass in front of the hides and on the
banks of the swamps has meant that people feel comfortable walking right up to
the water’s edge, which completely defeats the purpose of the hides and
screening plants.
As a conservation organisation may I strongly suggest that
COG makes representation to Environment ACT to have them desist from the
practice of mowing as this seems to be the major catalyst for people’s
behaviour and is only a relatively recent practice. Also could they consider
signage to advise the casual visitor to be mindful of the birds and to use the
paths when moving between hides. Furthermore, many of the screening trees and
plants have died in recent years and I have seen no effort to replace these
plants and rabbit numbers are again on the increase with the damage that this
brings. To date I have seen no evidence of a baiting program. Perhaps the
government's efforts could be better utilised here.
While I am happy to write as an individual, I think that in
this case the collective voice of COG needs to be heard.
Regards
Alastair
