Managing feral pigs and saving the coastal emu

The Managing feral pigs and saving the coastal emu project was delivered at Banyula Conservation Reserve in the Pillar Valley on the NSW North Coast. It focused on reducing predation of coastal emu eggs and chicks by controlling: 

• feral pigs
• foxes
• cats. 

The project was delivered in 2024 with ongoing monitoring and pest control activities.

Project objectives

This project aimed to:

• reduce predation on coastal emu eggs and chicks
• increase survival rates of coastal emu into adulthood
• support long-term population recovery of the coastal emu
• improve ecosystem health through pest management.

Project background

The coastal emu holds deep cultural significance for Bundjalung, Gumbaynggirr and Yaegl Traditional Owners. It is featured in important cultural stories, including the Emu in the Sky and other local songlines.  

Coastal emus also play a critical ecological role in coastal areas of the North Coast. They spread seeds across large areas and supporting the health of some of the most diverse coastal forests in the world.

The species is under significant threat from invasive predators such as feral pigs, which prey on eggs and chicks. Without intervention, the population is at risk of extinction within 50 years.

Project delivery

Work included:

• feral pig control at Banyula Conservation Reserve
• coordinated trapping across key locations
• extended pest control to include foxes and feral cats
• working across land tenures to improve pest management outcomes
• collaborating with partners and local communities.

Project outcomes

The work undertaken through the Managing feral pigs and saving the coastal emu project supported the survival of the endangered coastal emu and contributed to healthier coastal ecosystems.

Early positive outcomes included:

• reduced predator pressure and improved conditions for coastal emu breeding at Banyula Conservation Reserve
• increased survival of coastal emu chicks, with 3 chicks recorded at Banyula and a further five observed near Wooli and Minnie Waters
• reduced pest impacts in priority habitats, supporting healthier ecosystems and improved conditions for native vegetation and wildlife.

Funding and partnerships  

This project was funded by Saving our Species. 

Local Land Services partners include:

• NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service
• NSW Forestry Corporation
• Clarence Valley Council
• Yaegl Traditional Owners
• Aboriginal communities
• local landholders.