Bunbury Under Siege: Corella Chaos and the Growing Wildlife-Urban Conflict
Bunbury, Western Australia’s largest regional city, is battling a growing problem: an explosion in the corella population. These intelligent and adaptable birds are causing significant damage to infrastructure, disrupting sporting events, and creating a noisy nuisance for residents. The situation, as of March 16, 2026, is escalating, with authorities struggling to contain the flocks.
A History of Havoc: Corellas’ Increasing Impact
This isn’t a new issue. Corellas have long been a source of frustration in the South West region of Western Australia. Reports dating back to 2017 detail the birds chewing on building materials, like the rubber seals in the Bunbury Tower. More recently, in 2023, the severity of the problem prompted the appointment of former police commissioner Karl O’Callaghan to lead control efforts. Despite these interventions, the corella population continues to thrive.
Sporting Grounds and Infrastructure Under Attack
The impact is particularly acute on sporting facilities. The South West Football League is facing substantial repair costs due to corella damage. At Hands Oval, a recently redeveloped stadium costing over $19.5 million, up to 400 corellas regularly descend, seemingly unfazed by even the stadium’s siren. Carey Park Football Club’s Kelly Park ground suffered extensive damage last year when corellas chewed through the cables powering the stadium lights. Netting and bird-resistant light covers have been installed, but the birds are proving remarkably resilient.
Beyond the Football Field: A City-Wide Problem
The damage extends beyond sporting venues. Corellas are stripping trees, particularly palm trees along the foreshore, and causing noise pollution that disrupts daily life. The Australind Tennis Club is experiencing a resurgence of corella activity, with the birds now targeting the rubber around court lights, mirroring damage from a decade ago. Residents report being unable to hold conversations outdoors due to the constant noise.
The City’s Response and Resident Involvement
The City of Bunbury is urging residents to report corella sightings as part of its management strategy, which includes trapping and the use of noise deterrents. Mayor Jaysen Miguel has stated the council is “listening and taking action” in response to growing community concerns. However, the effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen.
Why Are Corellas So Successful?
Little Corellas and Eastern Long-billed Corellas are both identified as invasive species in the Bunbury area. They are not native to the region and are outcompeting local species, such as the Western Ringtail Possum and Black Cockatoos, for food and roosting habitat. Their intelligence and adaptability allow them to overcome many control measures.
The Debate Over Control Methods
While the City of Bunbury is actively managing the corella population, control methods are controversial. A previous plan to cull 800 corellas over two years, involving baiting, trapping, and shooting, faced criticism from animal welfare groups. Alternative approaches, such as using scaring techniques like gas guns and strobe lighting, have been suggested, but their long-term effectiveness is debated.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are corellas? Corellas are a type of cockatoo, known for their white plumage and distinctive calls.
- Why are they a problem in Bunbury? They are invasive, causing damage to infrastructure, disrupting sporting events, and creating noise pollution.
- What is the City of Bunbury doing about it? The city is implementing a management strategy that includes trapping, noise deterrents, and urging residents to report sightings.
- Are there alternative solutions to culling? Some suggest scaring techniques, but their effectiveness is still under discussion.
Pro Tip: If you encounter corellas causing damage on your property, report the sighting to the City of Bunbury. This data helps authorities track the birds’ movements and refine their management strategies.
Do you have experiences with corellas in your area? Share your stories in the comments below!
