Experts believe natural causes led to the death of more than 20 penguins and cormorants found washed up on beaches in the state’s North last week.
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While the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment are continuing to investigate the deaths, wildlife biologist Doctor Rachael Aldermen said none of the birds showed evidence of dog attacks or signs of disease.
Dr Aldermen said natural seasonal and environmental influences were a more likely cause.
“A peak in beach-washed seabirds occurs every year around February and early autumn,” she said.
“At this time, some adult birds may be exhausted after an energetically demanding breeding season, or young naive fledglings may be having difficulties learning how to navigate and to forage for the first time.”
A number of the birds have been collected for testing, however Dr Aldermen said testing could be inconclusive due to the carcasses being too deteriorated.
Melissa Mobbs
A journalist with more than a decade of experience, Melissa Mobbs currently works as the Deputy Editor for The Examiner Newspaper in Launceston, and has a strong background in reporting on crime and the justice system. Send tips to Melissa.Mobbs@examiner.com.au or on Twitter via @melissamobbs.
A journalist with more than a decade of experience, Melissa Mobbs currently works as the Deputy Editor for The Examiner Newspaper in Launceston, and has a strong background in reporting on crime and the justice system. Send tips to Melissa.Mobbs@examiner.com.au or on Twitter via @melissamobbs.
