Protecting native wildlife at Goulds Lagoon
Glenorchy City Council will begin a feral duck removal program at the Goulds Lagoon Sanctuary from 20 August 2026.
The program aims to help protect native birdlife and maintain the ecological balance of Goulds Lagoon.
Feral ducks can compete with native ducks for food and habitat and can also crossbreed with native species.
At Goulds Lagoon, feral ducks are placing pressure on native duck and other bird populations.
When will the program take place?
From 17 August 2026
Council officers will begin placing feed stations within the sanctuary to encourage feral ducks into the area ahead of trapping.
From 20 August 2026
Special non-lethal traps will be used to capture feral ducks.
The program will take place over the coming weeks as required.
How will the ducks be removed?
Special non-lethal traps will initially capture the feral ducks.
The traps are designed to allow native ducks and other non-target wildlife to be safely released if they are inadvertently captured.
Feral ducks that are captured will be removed from the area and humanely euthanised.
How can the community help?
Visitors are asked to:
- Not interfere with feed stations or traps
- Keep activity around feed stations and trapping areas to a minimum
- Follow any signage or directions from Council officers while the program is underway
The feed being used is safe and will not harm wildlife if eaten. Minimising activity around the feed stations will help the target ducks feel comfortable feeding in the area and improve the effectiveness of the program.
Where will the program take place?
All activity associated with the feral duck removal program will take place within the Goulds Lagoon Sanctuary.
The program will not take place on private land.
Why is feral duck removal necessary?
Feral ducks can have a negative impact on native bird populations by competing for food and habitat. They can also breed with native duck species, which can affect native populations over time.
Council is undertaking this program to reduce these impacts and help protect the native wildlife that calls Goulds Lagoon home.
More information
The program follows concerns raised by the community at an onsite meeting at Goulds Lagoon on 6 July 2026, attended by Elected Members and Council staff.
If you would like more information about ducks in our area, check out our Ducks of Glenorchy page.
If you would like to ask questions, please email gccmail@gcc.tas.gov.au, or call 03 6216 6800.
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