Authorities have scheduled the shooting of more than 10,000 camels from helicopters to reduce their excessive water consumption in the areas in Australia that are impacted by drought.
The shooters will follow the orders of the Aboriginal leaders in the APY lands.
According to locals, the animals have been entering their communities and causing a mess because they’re looking for any water source, including tanks and taps.
The people are feeling unwell, stuck in hot and uncomfortable situations since the camels are knocking down fences, getting around their houses, and trying to collect the water from the air conditioners, claims Marita Baker, a board member of the APY.
Camels in Australia Scheduled to be Shot
The animals won’t just be culled over because of their overconsumption of water, but because of their greenhouse emissions- they release methane that’s equal to a ton of carbon dioxide on a yearly basis.
According to a spokesperson from the South Australia Department of Environment and Water, the increasing number of camels has led to numerous issues in the region.
They’ve caused infrastructure damage, endangered families and communities, elevated the grazing pressure throughout APY lands, and led to critical animal welfare problems as they can die of thirst or trample one another for water access.
The operation to put the camel population under control is estimated to a total of 1.2 million across the country. It’s expected to last 5 days.
What Will Happen after the Culling?
After the action, their carcasses will be left to dry out prior to being burned or buried. Camels were introduced in Australia from India and Afghanistan in the 19th century and were used for construction and transport.
If culling doesn’t happen, their population will probably double every 8 to 10 years.
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