Dingo & 22 Shorebirds Killed by Reckless Beach Driving on K’gari

Queensland park rangers are urging drivers to slow down and be mindful of native wildlife after the recent death of a wongari/dingo along the beaches of K’gari.

On the 28th of September 2024, a deceased wongari/dingo was reported to the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DESI), found approximately 500m south of Sandy Cape Spit on K’gari. After collection and assessment, it was declared the animal’s injuries were consistent with a vehicle strike.

‘Sadly, there have been three car accidents resulting in the deaths of wongari in the past year, with approximately 67 vehicle strikes of wongari since 2000’, says Parks Ranger Jenna Tapply.

‘Wongari’s can be unpredictable and may run out in front of your car so it’s important to be alert, aware of your surroundings and ready to react’, she said.

In addition to the wongari, rangers recently found 22 deceased crested terns – a type of shorebird – that were also struck by vehicles. These birds and others often form flocks along the beaches. The loss of wildlife on K’gari threatens the ecosystem and is distressing for QPWS rangers and Butchulla Traditional Owners.

Anyone driving on the island’s beaches are urged to be mindful of wildlife and drive to the conditions, especially when sharing the island with animals like wongari and shorebirds that call it home.

‘Driving responsibly reduces the risk of accidents and gives drivers more time to react if they encounter wildlife’, says Ranger Tapply.

Feeding or disturbing a wongari is illegal and deliberately harming wildlife, including wongari or crested terns, will result in a significant fine.

Wongari lying on the beach at K’gari | Photo by Kellie Floyd

What to Do if You Spot a Wongari

Wildlife creatures depend on our attentiveness. If you’re driving on the sand and encounter a wongari:

• Slow down
• Give it ample space to move away
• Use your hazard lights to alert other drivers to the wongari’s presence

If you’re involved in an accident with a wongari, or spot a deceased wongari, report it to DESI (QLD Department of Environment, Science and Innovation) on (07) 4127 9150 or dingo.ranger@des.qld.gov.au.

Meanwhile, visitors to K’gari are reminded to always be dingo-safe. This includes staying within arm’s reach of children, walking in groups, camping in fenced areas, avoiding running, and securing all food, rubbish, and bait.

Feature image by @sarahb-photography on Flickr | License