Following reports of vandals tearing down signs, tyre marks in a roped-off area, and eggs and chicks missing from endangered Pied Oystercatchers’ nests at Lake Conjola, a National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) area manager reminded South Coast residents of the damage humans can do to vulnerable species.

“Most people do the right thing, it’s just small minority that can have an impact on our plants and animals,” NPWS Illawarra and Highlands area manager Graham Bush said.

“The habitats are getting more and more fragile. So, sometimes accidents can happen, but a lot of times now we’re getting more and more vandals which can have a major impact on threatened species.”

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Mr Bush reminded national parks users to report any obvious acts of cruelty or vandalism.

However, many instances of people approaching nesting sites were accidental such as crossing sand dunes they shouldn’t or camping in prohibited areas.

“Although some might be accidental, it’s pushing into nesting sites so it’s really important that people stick to the roads and walking tracks and follow signs,” he said.

“The main thing for us is that most people do the right thing and maybe unintentionally damage it. So, stick to pathways, follow the signs and just realise there is a good reason for those things.

“If people are aware of anyone doing the wrong thing they can report it to their Nationals Parks office and we will follow that up.”