Residents encouraged to keep an eye out for invasive weed species in Livingstone Shire

The community is being encouraged to report any unfamiliar plant or weed species throughout Livingstone Shire, after a resident recently discovered a harmful cactus plant. 

The invasive species known as Bunny Ears or ‘blind cacti’ is a group of cactus which was found in Emu Park and Kinka Beach sparking a call out to residents to be aware of any foreign species around their home, garden, or local area.

The two recent identifications of Bunny Ears have been of potted plants identified in home gardens. It is most likely that these type of plants are purchased through backyard nurseries, bought online, or in these recent cases, being passed on unknowingly to friends.
Portfolio holder of Water, Waste Management and the Environment, Councillor Andrea Friend, said the blind cactus is native to Mexico and can cause serious harm to animals.

“On the leaf pads are clusters of hair like prickles called Glochids. These dislodge if the plant is moved or touched and domestic pets like cats and dogs can rub against them and bring them into your home,” Cr Friend said. 

“These disturbed prickles can cause blindness in livestock and pets and if humans come into contact they can have health impacts.

“Biosecurity Queensland and Livingstone Shire Council will assist landholders with the safe removal and control to stop its spread.

“We strongly encourage residents to be vigilant and contact Council if they are unsure about a certain species.

“Weeds are able to spread rapidly and have unwanted economic, environmental or social impacts.

“They can be very difficult to identify and may be confused with plants which are not invasive, including native or endangered species.

“Some weeds plants also look very different in their juvenile and mature stages.

“It's important to correctly identify the weed to ensure that control methods are effective and appropriate. Some factors to consider when identifying a weed are where and when the plant grows, its shape, size, leaf form, and flower colour.”

For more information about invasive species, please visit https://www.daf.qld.gov.au/business-priorities/biosecurity/invasive-plants-animals/plants-weeds or you can phone Council’s Customer Support Centre on 4913 5000, or the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries on 13 25 23.