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Why is Australia killing almost 2000 kangaroos?

Speed News Desk | Updated on: 10 February 2017, 1:50 IST
Australia will kill over 1,900 kangaroos from 16 May on in a bid to reduce its population as it can cause a "devastating impact on the local environment", an official has said.

The announcement was made on its annual measure to control the kangaroo population. The culling of kangaroos will be done across Australian Capital Territory (ACT).

Ten reserves across the territory will be closed each evening to allow the killing of up to 1,991 animals, ABC news reported.

Director of Parks and Conservation with the ACT government, Daniel Iglesias said it was necessary to curb the population of eastern grey kangaroos in the ACT.

"We know for a fact that over-abundant numbers of eastern grey kangaroos can have a devastating impact on the local environment," he said.

"We know that it can lead to de-vegetation and the complete degradation of certain areas if we let it go too long. This is not about eradication, this is about sustainable numbers of eastern grey kangaroos," Iglesias added. A trial is currently underway to test the usefulness of fertility drugs as an alternative method of controlling kangaroo populations.

The kill is expected to conclude by 1 August. Almost 4000 kangaroos have been killed over the past two years as part of the ACT's annual cull.

First published: 14 May 2016, 12:52 IST