Managing new exotic animal incursions

Also referred to as alien, non-native, or non-indigenous animal incursions. Exotic animal incursions refer to detections of species that are either not recorded as established in the open environment or that currently have a limited distribution within NSW.  It is critically important that new exotic animal incursions are detected and managed early and effectively to prevent their long-term impacts.

New exotic animal incursions may be introduced to NSW through pathways including:

• the illegal exotic animal pet and food trade
• as accidental stowaways in imported goods and luggage
• during migrations where animals can be knocked off their normal course.

They are:

• illegal to acquire, keep or otherwise deal with throughout NSW or
• must be authorised to keep (e.g. in a licensed zoo).

They pose a risk to the environment, economy and community because they can:

• kill and or compete with native species for food, habitat and shelter
• carry and spread animal diseases that may affect livestock, humans and native animals
• destroy habitat for native species
• survive, breed and spread in the environment without human assistance.