A Lara man has been whacked with a fine after he disturbed the habitat of a critically endangered bird.
Research and monitoring equipment was stolen from a fairy tern habitat at the Avalon Coastal Reserve, with the habitat also disturbed, with images captured on the equipment used.
The man given an infringement and fined $790.
Acting Chief Conservation Regulator Wayne Robins said it was unacceptable.
“It is an offence to disturb wildlife or to damage, disturb or destroy wildlife habitat,” he said.
“It is especially concerning to see the habitat of a critically endangered species being disturbed.”
Birdlife Australia also expressed their concerns.
“This research is so important for the endangered fairy tern and it’s vital that we are able to continue this work without disturbance.”
All equipment was returned.
