Feb 21 • 21:59 UTC 🇦🇺 Australia ABC News AU

Nine-kilometre outback goat trap catching thousands and paying for itself

A massive, technologically advanced goat trap in remote Western Australia efficiently captures feral goats while reducing stress and operating costs for local livestock management.

In remote Western Australia, a groundbreaking goat trap measures nine kilometres and leverages technology to effectively capture feral goats. This innovative facility allows for remote operation through a telemetry network, enabling the automated closing of the trap without alerting the goats. Consequently, it minimizes the need for disruptive traditional methods that often rely on helicopters and motorbikes for mustering, which can be stressful for both livestock and workers.

The Murchison House Station has implemented this advanced trapping system to address the pressing issue of feral goat control, which has detrimental effects on local agriculture and pasture management. The introduction of this quiet and efficient trapyard offers a sustainable solution, significantly reducing operational costs associated with livestock management while also alleviating stress on pastoral animals. The net result is a more eco-friendly and economically viable approach to managing the invasive goat population.

Looking ahead, the family managing the station envisions expanding the trapyard's capacity and adapting the technology for other feral animal species, such as pigs and camels. By applying this model in different locations, they aim to further enhance wildlife management practices in the region. This innovation not only serves local agricultural interests but also contributes to broader ecological balance by tackling invasive species.

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