Pelican spikes spark outrage

BELLARINE Bayside has defended its decision to install bird spikes on light poles at the St Leonards and Indented Head boat ramps, stating the birds that frequently roost on them are causing too much damage.

In both coastal towns, it is common to see pelicans resting on lights along the foreshore, but the not-for-profit organisation said the droppings from these birds is acidic in nature and has begun to corrode the lights.

Bellarine Bayside chief executive Bruce Elliot said any damage to electrical infrastructure was of concern.

The move has sparked outrage from the local community and a petition to remove the bird spikes, started by Indented Head resident Heather Snook, has gained almost 600 signatures since it launched last week.

“We share the local community’s love of pelicans and in our experience, using bird spikes on lights at other areas on the coast has not led to pelicans leaving an area,” Mr Elliot said.

“Instead, they will choose alternative locations in the area to roost.”

Ms Snook said pelicans were an “iconic symbol” of the area and blasted the bird deterrents as “pointless and cruel”, suggesting they both “disrupt” and “pose physical dangers” to the bird population.

She also criticised the lack of community consultation undertaken before the decision was made.

“It is crucial for us as responsible citizens and stewards of nature, to ensure that our urban designs do not harm wildlife,” she said.

“By removing these spikes from the lamp posts at St Leonards and Indented Head, we can protect our cherished pelican and bird population and maintain the natural charm that defines our community.”

But Mr Elliot said bird spikes were “widely used” and “specially designed” to only act as deterrents and did not disturb the birds.

“The pelicans’ use of light poles is an opportunistic behaviour rather than being part of their natural roosting or breeding habits.

“Roosting on beaches, sandbanks, rocks and reefs, or paddling in shallow water are their natural choices for resting.”

Mr Elliot said the organisation would continue to monitor the local pelican population to determine if the installation of the bird spikes had any adverse impacts.

“We will also review the design of the new jetty to ensure there are no harmful impacts to pelicans and that we can provide a safe, sustainable and enjoyable experience for visitors.

“This will also allow us to consider, in consultation with experts, factors such as whether it is appropriate to be encouraging pelicans to aggregate at a busy boating facility, and what is best for the pelicans as a social animal.”