These terrible deaths can be prevented

PHALARIS staggers is a terrible condition impacting kangaroos on the western side of Murrindindi Shire, and in other parts of Victoria. Kangaroos with the condition appear drunk or staggering, losing their balance and collapsing, and it’s caused by the grass, Phalaris aquatica.

Kate Turner from Murrindindi Wildlife Rescue was contacted about the issue. She said, “I just euthanised another two in Flowerdale. I have honestly lost count of how many I’ve euthanised now, especially on the Broadford-Flowerdale Road, between Strath Creek and Flowerdale.

There are some spots in Yea as well with it. There’s been a couple out there that have been euthanised.

“Alexandra doesn’t seem to have it as bad as everywhere else. They don’t really have that much phalaris aquatica growing I don’t think. I don’t get out that side that often. It doesn’t grow up Murrindindi, but Glenburn, Flowerdale and Strath Creek are covered in it, and Yea.”

Shelley from Narbeview Wildlife Shelter advised that the issue is increasing on the Alexandra side of the shire as well.

Kate said that it was worse this year than ever before, “Because we’ve had such a bad season, the plants are under more stress than usual. When Phalaris aquatica is under more stress, it produces more toxins to protect itself.

The roos are much worse. In previous years I’ve been able to save some. This year I haven’t been able to save a single one. Even when I think that’s only mild, they don’t even last 24 or 48 hours.”

It’s not just Murrindindi Shire being impacted, with cases also reported around…

Image: Phalaris aquatica is the yellow grass in the background of this shot.