We celebrate all forms of life big and small in our community, learn about our local wildlife and ways to help them thrive.
Native animal and insects that need our protection
Bees
Bees play an important role in pollinating flowering plants. It is estimated that one third of the human food supply depends on insect pollination, most of which is accomplished by bees, especially the domesticated European honey bee.
The Beekeepers Club Inc. (Melbourne) has a list of local bee removalists if you need to remove bee hives and swarms.
If a swarm or hive is found on Council land or in a neighbouring property, contact us.
Birds
Birds are an important part of our local ecosystem. They pollinate our plants and spread seeds across the landscape. Some birds help to keep our insect, rodent and spider populations low, and others fish in waterways.
We can provide habitat for our beautiful birds by planting native flowering plants, and providing them with a bird bath. Nest boxes also help birds to find a place to raise their young, where hollows in trees may be scarce.
Owls
These carnivores are fantastic for keeping the balance in natural systems and reducing rodent populations. However, these birds are at risk of toxicity and death by commonly available rodent baits.
To find out more about predator friendly choices for managing rats and mice on your property, go to Birdlife Australia.
Frogs
Manningham is home to a variety of frog species, living in our rivers and creeks, ponds and even in our backyards. With good land management practices and reduction of pollution in our waterways, we can ensure our frog species continue to enjoy Manningham as a vital part of the local ecosystem.
Possums
Possums can survive in suburban areas because our streetscapes and gardens are similar to the possum's preferred natural environment.
The best way to keep a possum out of your roof is to secure your roof and provide an alternative home such as a nesting box.
It is illegal to handle or interfere with possums except when they are in your roof or other buildings. Possums can be trapped by a licensed wildlife controller, contact DEECA .
Pest animals and insects that threaten our native species
Residents are responsible for the removal of pest animal and insects on their property.
Deer
Deer are a problem in Manningham with a variety of impacts for landowners including property damage, destruction of bushland and potential for road accidents.
Assistance is available to landowners through our Local Environment Assistance Fund (LEAF), including financial assistance for Deer Control.
You can help by recording sightings and evidence of deer in your local area into the FeralScan website or App - which is a free community pest animal mapping and monitoring tool.
European Wasp
Residents are responsible for the removal of wasp nests on their property and should contact a licensed pest control operator to safely and quickly eradicate the nest.
If a nest is found on Council land or on a neighbouring property, please contact us.
Foxes
We offer funding assistance for landowners wanting to undertake fox control on their property. Apply for assistance or contact us.
For more information on fox control, go to Agriculture Victoria.
Indian Myna
If you are concerned with Indian Myna populations in your neighbourhood, our Environment team can provide information on control options. Contact us.
Rabbits
State legislation requires all landowners to take measures to control rabbits. Control is defined as taking action to minimise impact and prevent spread.
The Rabbit Control in Urban and Peri-urban Areas brochure explains control options and how to plan a successful rabbit control strategy.
Financial assistance to help control rabbits is available through LEAF grants. If you do not meet the LEAF criteria you can apply for fox and community rabbit control grants.