Endangered numbats harassed by over-eager nature photographers, authorities say

Western Australia is residence to a few of the world’s most photogenic creatures, however authorities warn some folks chasing the right shot could possibly be placing them in danger.

They are notably involved for numbats, the endangered species discovered within the Dryandra Woodland National Park, about 170 kilometres south-east of Perth.

Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) Wheatbelt regional supervisor Mitchell Davies stated the division was getting stories of poor behaviour by folks attempting to {photograph} numbat joeys.

“The reports include groups of people crowding around the den entrances, as well as removing rocks and sticks to clear their shots so they can get the better shot,” he stated.

“This time of 12 months is especially delicate because the younger numbats are rising from burrows.

The warning comes on the same day WA Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn held a press conference at Perth Zoo about seven numbat joeys born there.

Four of the joeys are set to be released into the wild later this year. 

Mr Swinbourn urged people taking photos of the endangered species in the wild to do the right thing.

“If they’re ready the place they’re inflicting hurt to these animals they usually’re simply doing it for likes, develop up,” he stated.

Ongoing concern

Mr Davies said the DBCA recommended photographers maintained a distance of at least 20 metres from the numbats and stuck to existing trails and roads as much as possible.

“We do recognize that folks like pictures they usually like to get a photograph of an elusive animal, however particularly this time of 12 months once they’re breeding, it is best to try to keep away from them altogether,” he stated.

The DBCA’s moral wildlife pictures guideline states that photographers ought to abandon their pursuit if their topic exhibits indicators of stress.

“Take excessive care when photographing wildlife with younger,” it says.

There have been ongoing concerns about the impact of those ignoring guidelines while taking photos of numbats.

In 2023 the WA Numbat Taskforce urged visitors not to share burrow locations or damage or remove any habitat amid an increasing number of photos of numbats being taken for social media.

The concern is not restricted to numbats.

Last month an investigation was launched right into a paddleboarder who received too near a southern proper whale mom and calf whereas filming them.