Matt's Plants & Co – Australia

Victorian gardeners are being urged to prioritise the use of wildlife-friendly fruit netting to protect their backyard crops.

It follows a surge in animal injuries and fatalities due to entanglements this summer, as reported by wildlife carers and authorities.

The Conservation Regulator is cautioning the public about the hazards associated with illegal netting, emphasising the threat it poses to native wildlife like birds, bats, and possums.

They stress the importance of using safe and compliant fruit netting, specifically with a mesh no larger than 5mm x 5mm.

Since September 1, 2021, it has been against the law in Victoria to use or sell netting with a mesh size exceeding this limit.

The restriction aims to prevent larger mesh netting on fruiting trees or plants, which is more prone to entangling, distressing, and causing fatal injuries to animals.

Apart from adhering to the recommended mesh size, experts advise the use of white netting with a cross-weave design.

This not only reduces risks to wildlife but also enhances visibility for nocturnal animals, making it easier for them to detect and avoid the netting during the night.

Authorities say you can also opt to protect some branches with bags or sleeves, as opposed to netting the whole tree.

They also say to avoid throwing netting loosely over trees or let it lay on the ground. This can trap reptiles and other animals.

Finally, fixing netting tightly to the tree trunk will help stop rats and birds from reaching fruit.

Top photo by Eric Brehm on Unsplash