SUPERSEDED Compiled Plans OPW20/0145.02

4.5. Releasing Captured Fauna

When releasing animals away from disturbed habitat, attention must be paid to several factors,
including weather conditions, seasonal conditions and the animal’s ecology. More partially the
animal should be released:

    • Into suitable Habitat with an adequate food supply
    • In appropriate weather, season and time of day. This is particularly important for migratory
       species.
    • Under circumstances which will not cause additional stress, such as extreme weather
       conditions, the wrong time of day (i.e. nocturnal species)
    • In the appropriate social group. Some animals fare better if released into social groups.
    • Within 1km of the site as per DES guidelines.

Fauna should be released at a suitable time of day, in a protected location close to the site. Data
should be recorded and kept on all fauna species trapped and relocated in accordance with DES
guidelines under the Rehabilitation Permit issued to AWEC. If situations occur where animals can
be re-released on the clearing site once clearing is complete the following criteria must be
followed:

    • Sufficient habitat is retained on site to support the animal’s required niche, considering
       factors such as: vulnerability to predation; availability of nesting sites, hollows or
       microhabitats and the availability of water and sufficient food sources.
    • Habitat corridors retained are of a suitable size, topography and vegetation cover to
       provide effective routes for normal ecological processes such as immigration, emigration,
       recruitment and dispersal.
    • Habitat blocks and corridors are of sufficient size to maintain ecological integrity and
       effectiveness, considering likely edge effects.
    • Long term risk factors to individual and population survival associated with the
       development have been (or will be) adequately managed or mitigated. For example:
       domestic animal control, motor vehicle/road impacts, swimming pool risk.


4.6. Injures & Euthanasia

Euthanasia is sometimes required to alleviate any pain or suffering of an injured captured animal
that is not capable of recovering to a degree to be released back into its natural habitat. Any
euthanasia that is required should be done promptly and, in the manner, most humane to that
species.
Any injured animals that have a reasonable chance of being rehabilitated and released back into
their natural habitat should immediately be given the care that they require. Any animals that
require medical attention to treat or diagnose an injury should be taken to the closest vet. Any
orphaned young or fauna with minor injuries (e.g. concussion) should be taken to the closest carer.
Some animals for example koalas will require specialist care and the closest suitable care facility
should be contacted.


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