Net results

Macquarie Perch

We have just received a report on the annual Fish Survey in the King Parrot Creek from the team at the Arthur Rylah Institute (see a previous post Gone fishing ! for details of the survey). The Macquarie Perch are clearly holding their own and are present in significant numbers right along the creek, despite the presence of introduced trout. It is good to see a range of other native fish also being identified. The capture (and safe release) of five Platypus supports our opinion that there is now a healthy population of platypus in the creek (see Successful platypus and rakali survey). Another encouraging result was the absence of Carp.

King Parrot Creek – Fish Survey Results April 2013

         * Exotic

Incidentally, the two eminently competent female fish researchers undertaking the survey, Jo and Renae, have shown us a fascinating historical document – a 1933 letter from the Office of the Chief Inspector of Fisheries and Game:

Having watched with admiration Jo, Renae and Fern deftly set up long Fyke nets or wield heavy electro-fishing equipment in a fast-flowing stream with slippery rocks and deep pools, we can only be amazed that the attitude in the letter ever prevailed, and thank goodness times have changed !!

Illegal?

A man’s occupation?