Pulu Keeling National Park Management Plan
Other Major ThreatsOther Major Threats
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Other Major Threats
The Cocos-Malay residents of the southern atoll used to hunt considerable numbers of seabirds. Lack of access to the Park for data collection and the introduction of the EPBC Act have resulted in no legal hunting in recent years. Any future hunting will need to be approved under the Act, and will be outside Pulu Keeling National Park. Poaching of seabirds remains an ongoing problem and a significant management issue.
The Cocos-Malay community has relied on seafood since settlement in the 1820’s. Due to difficulties of access, the taking of marine resources from waters around North Keeling Island has always been limited. Fishing in the Park waters has been restricted to trolling by permit only, in order to protect reef species. However, foreign fishermen occasionally illegally fish in the Park and have landed on North Keeling Island and stolen park equipment. The thefts have led to interference with long-term park monitoring programs. Visits by foreign fishermen also have the potential to introduce pests and diseases.
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Figure 1. Location of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands
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Figure 2. The Cocos (Keeling) Islands
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Figure 3. Pulu Keeling National Park and Zoning Plan
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Figure 4. Vegetation and Cross-section of North Keeling Island