Mandurah is home to a diverse range of native wildlife, from dolphins and shorebirds to kangaroos and snakes. These animals play an important role in our local ecosystems, and many live alongside us every day.
Here’s how you can help protect them and what to do if you come across an injured, distressed, or deceased animal.
Snakes are a natural and important part of our environment, particularly during the warmer months when they are more active. If you see a snake on your property, remain calm and keep people and pets away.
What to do:
Mandurah’s waterways are home to approximately 90 Indo‑Pacific bottlenose dolphins. We work closely with local researchers and volunteers to monitor dolphin health and behaviour and to protect these iconic animals.
If you find an injured or stranded dolphin:
Mandurah Dolphin Research Project
The City supports ongoing research through the Mandurah Dolphin Research Project that monitors population trends, health, habitat use, and long‑term conservation needs. These studies help us better protect dolphin habitat and respond to emerging threats.
Kangaroos are frequently seen around bushland, wetlands, and suburban areas. Unfortunately, they can sometimes be injured on roads or become trapped in fencing.
If you find an injured kangaroo:
If you find a deceased kangaroo:
Introduced animals like foxes and rabbits can have a significant impact on native wildlife and natural habitats.
Report sightings and impacts using FeralScan, a national community‑monitoring tool that helps track feral animal activity.
Mandurah is home to both permanent and migratory bird species, including shorebirds that travel thousands of kilometres each year to rest and feed along our coastline and wetlands.
If you find an injured bird, avoid handling it and call the DBCA Wildcare Helpline on (08) 9474 9055 and WA Seabird Rescue on (08) 6102 8464.
Additionally, you can report injured birds to Mandurah Wildlife Rescue on (08) 9582 3938.
Shorebirds
Our region supports internationally significant migratory shorebirds as well as year‑round resident species. These birds rely on quiet feeding and roosting areas, so please keep dogs on leads, avoid disturbing flocks, and follow beach signage during nesting season.
Magpies are a common part of Mandurah’s urban wildlife. During the breeding season (usually August to October), some males may swoop as they defend their nest. This behaviour is natural and usually only temporary.
Tips to stay safe
Magpies are protected native wildlife, so the City cannot remove a bird simply for swooping. The City may investigate if:
Most swooping behaviour resolves naturally once the nesting season ends.
Bee swarms occur when a hive becomes overcrowded and the queen leaves with a large number of worker bees to establish a new nest. These swarms are commonly seen clustered on trees, fences, or buildings while they rest. A resting swarm is generally not aggressive if left undisturbed. Swarms are temporary and will usually move on within 24 hours as they search for a suitable nesting site.
What to do
Rangers do not manage bees on private property.
Bees on Council land
If you find a beehive in a Council-managed area, please report it to the City on (08) 9550 3777, stating the hive's location and any other relevant information.
Keeping bees
Residents are permitted to keep bees, however:
For more information, refer to the Animal Environment and Nuisance Local Laws 2010 (Page 13).
Explore local environmental volunteer groups and get involved in conservation activities.
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Protecting and managing bushland areas for biodiversity and community enjoyment.
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