Slow down for cygnets: protecting Lake Wendouree’s Black Swans this spring

Black Swans are known to cross Wendouree Parade and surrounding roads, often with cygnets in tow. Drivers are reminded to obey speed limits and be prepared to slow down or stop if safe to do so, to allow swan families to cross safely - collisions with wildlife are preventable.

Dogs must be kept on a leash around Lake Wendouree, especially near the swans. Unleashed dogs can frighten, injure or separate cygnets from their parents, causing distress and harm.

All wildlife in Victoria is protected under the Wildlife Act 1975. Taking or destroying protected wildlife can attract a penalty of up to $10,175 and/or a term of six months imprisonment, with an additional penalty of more than $1,017 per animal. Wilfully injuring or disturbing protected wildlife can attract a penalty of up to $4,070. Conservation Regulator Forest and Wildlife Officers patrol Lake Wendouree to monitor wildlife safety and educate the public.

The City of Ballarat has implemented several safety measures around Lake Wendouree. These include installing Variable Messaging Boards at key locations along Wendouree Parade to alert drivers of their speed, encouraging compliance with the speed limit, and erecting fencing in strategic areas to help prevent swans from wandering onto the road. These actions are part of a broader effort to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions and promote coexistence between the community and local wildlife.

If you accidentally collide with a swan, stop if it’s safe to do so, and report the incident to a local wildlife rescuer. The Help for Injured Wildlife tool will help you locate and contact wildlife carers and rescue and rehabilitation organisations: Help for injured wildlife.

Please report any incidents of wildlife cruelty to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Acting Manager Regulatory Operations, Eve West said:

“Lake Wendouree’s Black Swans are a treasured part of our local environment, and spring is a critical time for their young. By driving carefully, keeping dogs leashed, and reporting any incidents, locals can play a vital role in protecting these native birds and ensure they continue to thrive in our shared spaces”

“Victorian native wildlife are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975. It is illegal to hunt, take, destroy, injure, or interfere with wildlife without authorisation. If you are aware of anyone disturbing, injuring or destroying wildlife, you can report it by calling Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.”