KANGAROOS can seem friendly enough but as a number of Hastings residents have found out recently, the animal can also be dangerous.
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National Parks and Wildlife, Manning-Hastings area manager, Stephen Atkins confirmed there had been several incidents involving kangaroos on the attack.
He said the encounters could have been avoided and warned Hastings residents not to become complacent when it comes to dealing with the wild animal.
He said it was less likely to be a result of an increase in numbers across the area.
"Because of the urban development happening around Port Macquarie the kangaroos are losing their (habitat) and being pushed into more populated areas," Mr Atkins said.
"It may appear they are increasing in numbers but there's no evidence to suggest that.
"We discourage people from engaging with them and that includes feeding them.
"If you become complacent with kangaroos, something could set them off and they can attack."
Mr Atkins said although attacks can be rare it was important residents were aware of their surroundings.
"Based on the information that comes through to us there are very few incidents," he said.
"It's not a significant problem but it's something people need to be aware of."
Mr Atkins said the organisation can offer assistance to private landholders and often advises schools on how to best manage a problem.
He said in extreme cases if there is an issue with a particularly aggressive kangaroo, the land owner can be granted to seek the assistance of a professional, qualified shooter.
"But that's obviously a last resort," Mr Atkins said.
"And that's with all aggressive wildlife."
- Do not walk directly towards a kangaroo.
- Do not stand up tall, stare or hold your arms out towards a kangaroo.
- Do not go near kangaroos engaged in courtship or mating behaviour - for example, males sniffing, touching or moving around with females.
- Do not go near male kangaroos that are sparring, fighting or showing off their size and strength to each other
- Do not go near a kangaroo that is growling or clucking.
- Do not move between a female and her joey.
- Do not allow your dogs to approach a kangaroo. They will vigorously defend themselves against dogs and this may draw you into a dangerous situation.
If you feel threatened move well clear. Try not to attract the kangaroos attention and keep your head and arms low.
Wait until the kangaroo has moved away before continuing on your way.
If you need to retreat in a crouched or crawling position to a safe location a distance away.
Try to position an object like a tree or fence between you and the kangaroo and call for help.
If attacked drop to the ground and curl into a ball with your hands protecting your face and throat. Try to remain calm and still until the animal moves away or if possible keep low to the ground and move behind some form of cover.