A PLATYPUS has been found dead in an illegal yabby trap near Kambah Pool along with three Murray River Crayfish, a species listed as threatened and protected.

ACT Parks and Conservation is now asking Canberrans to report any sightings of any traps or nets in ACT rivers and streams, which have been illegal in the ACT for over 10 years, and are also illegal in surrounding parts of NSW.

The drowned platypus was reported by a keen fisherman, according to acting regional manager of National Parks and Catchments, Brett McNamara.

“The trap also contained three threatened and protected Murray River Crayfish estimated at being between 10 and 40 years old,” Mr McNamara said, adding out that fishing for the local “yabbies” is illegal.

“This sort of incident is incredibly disappointing given the platypus is such an iconic species and the Murray River Crayfish is threatened. While the conservation status of platypus is ‘stable’, this month the Upper Murrumbidgee Waterwatch is running a platypus count to ascertain a clearer picture of overall numbers in our local waterways.”

Traps kill animals like platypus, turtles and water rats by drowning them.

“Rangers will be stepping up patrols along the Murrumbidgee River Corridor looking for illegal fishing, which can also include the use of set lines, unattended rods, not keeping to size and bag limits and unauthorised vehicle access to areas,” said McNamara, adding that rangers will be increasing enforcement patrols in coming weeks.

“Last year we issued $1150 worth of on the spot fines to an illegal fisher who had 10 set lines at Kambah Pool reserve. There are no excuses for poor fishing behaviour. A number of signs are in good view of the public at popular fishing spots along the Murrumbidgee. These signs display pictures and descriptions of the protected endangered fish so that anglers can readily identify their catch. They also provide information on regulations and restrictions.

Illegal traps and nets can be reported to or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Canberra Connect on 13 22 81. Information on legal recreational fishing in the ACT is available from tams.act.gov.au, and platypus sightings can be reported to platypus.asn.au