Common pesticide confirmed as mass killer of Little Corellas
Authorities in New South Wales, Australia, have linked toxic grain to widespread poisoning of Little Corellas.
A devastating scene across suburban Newcastle
In March 2025, residents of Newcastle, New South Wales, were confronted by a grim sight: dead and dying Little Corellas strewn across parks, footpaths, and schoolyards. The white cockatoos - known for their sociability and intelligence - were found in alarming numbers across suburbs including Carrington, Hamilton, Waratah, Broadmeadow, Lambton, and around the University of Newcastle.
Bleeding from the eyes and beak, staggering on the ground, paralysed and unable to fly - these were the symptoms reported by local wildlife carers. As nearly 200 birds succumbed, community members and rescue organisations scrambled to help those still alive, many of which later died despite emergency veterinary care.
EPA confirms use of toxic fenitrothion
This week, the New South Wales Environment Protection Authority (EPA) confirmed the cause: the pesticide fenitrothion. Post-mortem tests found both the insecticide and barley grain in the digestive systems of all sampled birds. Investigators believe the grain was deliberately laced and scattered, leading to one of the worst avian poisoning incidents in recent memory.
Fenitrothion is a widely used organophosphate pesticide typically applied to crops and stored grain to control insect pests. Though not illegal, its use near urban areas or in a manner that risks exposure to non-target species is strictly regulated.
Legal and regulatory response
The EPA has issued a public appeal for information and warned that under the Pesticides Act 1999, the unlawful or negligent use of pesticides that causes environmental harm carries maximum penalties of up to A$500,000 for individuals and A$2 million for corporations. Enforcement action will depend on the outcome of ongoing investigations, but the agency has reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing those responsible.
The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) is now reviewing fenitrothion’s registration in light of the incident. Questions have been raised about whether the current label instructions offer adequate protection to wildlife, particularly highly mobile and vulnerable bird species.
Community anguish and ecological concern
Newcastle’s residents were shaken by the incident. Social media posts and local news coverage featured footage of Corellas convulsing and dying in plain view of children and families. Wildlife organisations including WIRES and Hunter Wildlife Rescue described the event as both heartbreaking and infuriating, especially given that previous poisonings have occurred in the region.
Little Corellas are often viewed as noisy or destructive by some communities, particularly in urban settings where large flocks gather. However, experts caution that frustration over nuisance behaviour does not justify lethal measures - especially those that violate animal welfare laws and endanger broader ecosystems.
Call for better protections and education
This case has reinvigorated calls for tighter pesticide controls and improved public education on coexisting with native birds. Conservationists argue that rather than vilifying species like the Little Corella, policymakers should invest in humane deterrents and promote habitat-sensitive urban planning.
For now, authorities continue to seek information from the public. As the investigation unfolds, the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of how human actions - deliberate or negligent - can ripple through natural communities, with consequences that extend far beyond their intended targets.
11 May 2025
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