Pests

Animal pests, both vertebrates (backbone) and invertebrates (no backbone), can have an adverse impact on agriculture, the natural environment and even our lifestyle. Animal pests may be exotic animals which are introduced, either accidentally or deliberately. Native animals may also be pests in certain situations.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development manages pests in Western Australia through policy development, risk assessment, research and development, provision of technical advice and information, implementation of regulation, emergency response, property inspections, industry liaison, and the planning and coordination of significant species control/eradication programs.

For advice on pests search our website, the Western Australian Organism List or contact our Pest and Disease Information Service (PaDIS).

For diagnostic services, please contact our Diagnostic Laboratory Services.

Articles

Rusa deer: animal pest alert

28 November 2013

This animal pest alert provides information on the identification, biology, and pest potential of the rusa deer in Western Australia.
Feral deer

25 January 2024

Three species of feral deer are found in Western Australia: rusa, red and fallow. All 3 species are declared pests and need be reported.
Fallow and red deer: requirements and conditions to keep

4 February 2014

This article provides information on the requirements for keeping fallow and red deer species in Western Australia.
Animal pests - birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians - policy and management

21 November 2013

Information on policy and management concerning vertebrate animals in Western Australia and risks of emerging pest animals.
Northern palm squirrel

15 January 2014

This article provides information about the identification, biology and impact of the northern palm squirrel for Western Australia.
Fox control

11 December 2013

Foxes can cause significant losses to some agricultural producers. They also prey on many native animals. The best option is to control foxes before they become a problem.
1080 and strychnine bait products

25 March 2014

Under the BAM Act, landholders - landowners and occupiers - are responsible for the control of foxes, wild dogs, feral pigs, rabbits and emus on their properties.
Feral pigs

28 January 2014

Feral pigs are the descendants of domestic pigs (Sus scrofa), which were first brought to Australia by early European colonists.
Feral pig control: 1080 baiting

28 January 2014

Feral pigs are the descendants of domestic pigs, which were first brought to Australia by early European colonists.
Diagnosing mouse damage in narrow-leafed lupins

19 January 2015

Mice are seasonal pests that can affect any crop. Usually they favour paddocks with high stubble retention.