Feeding the Birds Could Land You a Hefty Fine
Think twice before tossing crumbs to pigeons in two Australian states. Feeding pigeons or wild animals without a license can result in hefty fines.
According to legal experts, South Australian residents could face fines up to $30,000 for intentionally or recklessly feeding pigeons if they knows their actions are causing a local nuisance. Even when intent can’t be proven, a fine of up to $10,000 may still apply.
This unique law isn’t just about deterring feeding birds. Its purpose is multifaceted, aimed at “protecting individuals and communities from local nuisance” while also preventing littering and promoting a clean environment.
A Focus on Property Values
“Most other states leave these issues to the local National Parks and Wildlife Service office,” said legal expert,
A
vinash Singh.
“There is an emphasis by the South Australian parliament on protecting property values and this legislation is one of the tools they can use to prevent behaviour that can negatively affect this,” explains Singh.
Similarly, in Western Australia, feeding wild animals without a license is a costly mistake. Violators face potential fines reaching $20,000.
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What are the potential fines for feeding wild birds in South Australia and Western Australia?
Feeding the Birds Could Land You a Hefty Fine
Think twice before tossing crumbs to pigeons in two Australian states. Feeding pigeons or wild animals without a license can result in hefty fines.
According to legal experts, South Australian residents could face fines up to $30,000 for intentionally or recklessly feeding pigeons if they knows their actions are causing a local nuisance. Even when intent can’t be proven, a fine of up to $10,000 may still apply.
This unique law isn’t just about deterring feeding birds. Its purpose is multifaceted, aimed at “protecting individuals and communities from local nuisance” while also preventing littering and promoting a clean environment.
A Focus on Property Values
“Most other states leave these issues to the local National Parks and Wildlife Service office,” said legal expert,
A
vinash Singh.
“There is an emphasis by the South Australian parliament on protecting property values and this legislation is one of the tools they can use to prevent behaviour that can negatively affect this,” explains Singh.
Similarly, in Western Australia, feeding wild animals without a license is a costly mistake. Violators face potential fines reaching $20,000.
**Interviewer:** Joining us today is legal expert, Avinesh Singh, to discuss these new fines for feeding birds. Avinesh, these laws seem quite strict. What are your thoughts on them?
**Avinesh Singh:** It’s certainly a unique approach. While most states leave these matters to wildlife services, South Australia seems to be taking a more proactive stance, particularly focused on protecting property values.
**Interviewer:** Do you think these fines are justified? Some people might see tossing a few crumbs to pigeons as harmless.
**Avinesh Singh:** It’s a complex issue. On one hand, we want to encourage a respect for wildlife and prevent littering. On the other hand, these fines are significant and could arguably be seen as disproportionate to the offense.
**Interviewer:** How do you think the public will react to this?
**Avinesh Singh:** I believe it will spark a debate. Some will support the law, valuing a clean environment and property values. Others may see it as government overreach. It will be interesting to see how this plays out.
What are your thoughts? Do you think these fines are too harsh, or are they necessary to protect our communities?
