Sydney council issues warning over popular Halloween decoration

A local council in Sydney's east has warned residents against using synthetic spiderwebs in their Halloween decorations, saying they can have "grave consequences" for local wildlife.

According to Waverley Council – which covers suburbs like Bondi, Bronte, Vaucluse and Dover Heights – the popular decoration can be particularly devastating for small birds.

It called on locals to avoid using fake spiderwebs and opt for other decorations instead.

READ MORE: Aussies 'hours away' from major financial deadline

"Birds often use real spider silk for building their nests but can't tell the difference between genuine silk and artificial webbing," it said in a Facebook post.

"This can lead to distressing situations where birds become trapped and injured (or worse) in fake cobwebs.

"Microbats, insects, and other creatures can fall victim to fake spiderwebs as well.

"So please also ensure your decorations don't blow away and create hazards in local parks or trees, and are disposed of responsibly soon after the event.

"Let's all ensure our spooky festivities in Waverley are not only entertaining, but also respect and protect our local wildlife."

Halloween will be celebrated tomorrow, October 31.