Storm Takes Toll on Perth Zoo

Perth Zoo received 23 endangered Carnaby's black cockatoos suffering fractures as well as soft tissue and skeletal injuries. Three of the birds had to be put down and another died of its injuries.

Nine of the less serious cases were transferred to the Black Cockatoo Recovery Centre in Perth's southern suburbs.

Western Australian Environment Minister Donna Faragher said the 10 remaining birds were still receiving treatment and care at Perth Zoo's on-site veterinary hospital, stating "the species is endemic to South-West Australia and it is estimated that only 40,000 exist with the population spread over only one-third of the range that existed 50 years ago."

Minister Faragher added that the storms had a significant impact on wildlife around Perth.

Perth Zoo's veterinary hospital also received and treated several other injured wild birds including a pelican with a smashed wing that had to be put down. Several birds of other species have also been found dead across Perth.

Minister Faragher said the zoo also suffered extensive damage during Monday's storm, particularly the Penguin Plunge and the Australian Wetlands, where the overhead netting was destroyed by hail and a fallen tree.

She added "there are also concerns that the storms will impact on marine life in the Canning River.

"The storm has washed a considerable amount of organic material into the river, resulting in a rapid decrease in oxygen levels.

"I encourage members of the public to report any fish deaths or other unusual events to the Swan River Trust."