Wildlife

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: 

• Do not attempt to approach or handle the snake. 
• Keep your distance and give it time to move away on its own. 
• If the snake needs to be safely relocated, you can call: 
  • The City on (08) 9550 3777 who will provide contact details for a wildlife re-locator 
  • DBCA Wildcare Helpline on (08) 9474 9055

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: 

• Call the DBCA Wildcare Helpline on (08) 9474 9055 and Mandurah Volunteer Dolphin Rescue Group on 0407 090 284 with the dolphin’s location and condition. 
• Keep a safe distance and do not attempt to push the dolphin back into the water. 
• Avoid crowds, loud noises, or drones, which can cause additional stress. 

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: 

• Call DBCA Wildcare Helpline on (08) 9474 9055 so a trained wildlife rescuer can attend. 
• Keep your distance – stressed animals can behave unpredictably. 
• Do not attempt to transport or move the kangaroo yourself. 

If you find a deceased kangaroo: 

• Report the location to the City on (08) 9550 3777 so it can be safely removed. 
• If a joey may still be present in the pouch or nearby, call the DBCA Wildcare Helpline on (08) 9474 9055 for urgent assistance. 

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 a trained wildlife rescuer: 

• DBCA Wildcare Helpline – (08) 9474 9055  
• WA Seabird Rescue – (08) 6102 8464 
• Mandurah Wildlife Rescue – (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 

• Walk slowly if near known nesting areas 
• Dismount bikes or scooters in high‑risk areas
• Avoid the area if possible during breeding season
• Wear sunglasses or a hat to protect your face

Magpies are protected native wildlife, so the City cannot remove a bird simply for swooping. The City may investigate if: 

• A magpie is causing a significant public safety risk, or 
• The nest is located in a high‑traffic area (e.g. near schools) 

Most swooping behaviour resolves naturally once the nesting season ends.