Potts Point cockatoos may be given a shock, not the chop

The City of Sydney is pushing for shock tracks to be installed in Potts Point to prevent further damage from cockatoo vandalism.

Council has proposed the use of shock tracks, which would give small electronic shocks to birds who landed on it, after a discussion between building owners and Lord Mayor Clover Moore MP and Greens Councillor Irene Doutney.

“The City has proposed to investigate funding a trial of a shock track system to deter the cockatoos as an alternative to culling,” said a City of Sydney spokesperson.

“It’s not yet known if this is a viable option, and further discussions with the strata managers would have to be undertaken before any a formal proposal is developed.”

Strata manger of the building in question, Luke Derwent, has raised concerns over Council’s suggestion. He does not believe this is a workable solution as it will be difficult to install the tracks on 245 window sills, 75 doors and a slate roof; problem spots where the damage is occuring.

“The building is constructed of face brick and sandstone meaning that any form of screwing etc would result in permanent and irreparable damage to the building,” wrote Mr Derwent in a letter to the council.

“Any form of penetration etc of the sandstone or brick face will expose the surface to weathering and damage. . . note also that the building is a heritage item.”

The letter further questioned the costs of the project and how Council seeks to compensate them.

The demands sought from the owner’s corporation have been criticised by Councillor Irene Doutney.

“The building managers are being really difficult and making ridiculous demands.”

Locals have praised the council’s suggestion for the shock tracks.

“This is a great outcome for both the cockatoos and the owners of the building,” said  Lisa Harrison and Katrina Moriarty, who had collected over 500 signatures in their petition against the proposal.

“It is a humane, practical decision that will save wildlife, protect the local ecosystem and also effectively protect the property.”

Peter McCarthy, director of bird control company Bird Guard, said shock traps are recommended by several government agencies as the best method to prevent cockatoo vandalism.

“I don’t know any other system that works,” he said.

Mr McCarthy said shock traps are a humane way to deal with a difficult and stubborn bird problem.

“It’s literally a memory deterrent, it gives a little jolt…[and] one hell of a fright.”

Mr McCarthy said as long as the system is kept charged it will work, otherwise the birds may chew up the wires.

“If the track is turned off the birds will come back.”

But he was not concerned that this would happen.

“We have hundreds of systems out there and we’ve only had one fault.”

The Council spokesperson said the final decision on whether to install the track or to cull the birds will ultimately rest with NSW Parks and Wildlife Service.