Advertisement

Mysterious deaths of pelicans, turtles, fish creates foul smell and alarms residents

The mysterious deaths of pelicans, turtles and countless fish have alarmed residents north of Sydney who are now demanding action.

The dead and dying creatures have been found around Bushells Lagoon, near Wilberforce northwest of Sydney. The rotting carcasses are also creating an awful odour.

Concerned resident John Varley said one of the biggest wetlands on the Hawkesbury River is now in a "distressing state".

Most put it down to a combination of unusually high water temperatures, and pollution.

The dead and dying marine life is causing a foul smell in Bushells Lagoon. Source: 7 News
The dead and dying marine life is causing a foul smell in Bushells Lagoon. Source: 7 News

Xuela Sledge of Greater Sydney Landcare said the water quality has been decreasing continually over the past four or five months.

"The smaller amount of dilution of any chemicals in the water is certainly going to have an impact on the wildlife in the lagoon," Ms Sledge said.

  • Five-year-old left in car on 40 degree day while dad played pokies

  • Patient given overdose of pain killers by medical staff: inquest

  • Drug addicted mum smoked ice 'more than she went to the toilet' before two babies died

The water quality has said to be decreasing over the past four or five months. Source: 7 News
The water quality has said to be decreasing over the past four or five months. Source: 7 News

The devastation of aquatic life includes pelicans, native eels, water hens and turtles has worsened in the last week.

Whatever the cause is, the Environmental Protection Agency and the Hawkesbury council have yet to take responsibility. Locals say both organisations need to come to a mutual understanding before more aquatic life is wiped out.

Locals say they can't win though. Even once the water returns so will the carp - an unwanted pest in the region.

It's not known what's causing the deaths. Source: 7 News
It's not known what's causing the deaths. Source: 7 News