As part of an overall goal of increasing the professional and practical skills base of Australia through education and training, the IA CRC is conducting social research into public attitudes to invasive vertebrates.

One part of this research is a survey, being managed by ValueMetrics Australia.   Approximately 30 species are included in the survey, including:

• buffalo
• camels
• cane toads
• carp
• cockatoos
• crows
• deer
• dingoes
• feral cats
• feral goats
• feral pigs
• foxes
• Indian Myna birds
• introduced mice
• introduced pigeons
• introduced rats
• kangaroos
• mosquito fish (Gambusia)
• sparrows
• starlings
• Tilapia
• red-eared slider turtles
• wild dogs
• wild donkeys
• wild horses (brumbies)
• wild rabbits
  

Respondents are asked to rate (and provide comment on) their perceptions as to levels of threat or damage caused by the animal,  and whether they see a benefit to invasive animals being managed.  Information is also being gathered on public perceptions to different management strategies, and the potential environmental issues from management options.

This information will feedback into future policies and management strategies.