Thousands of kangaroos could be shot by professional shooters in and around Canberra's north after populations have been deemed to be out of control.

A Defence spokeswoman has confirmed Belconnen Naval Transmission station and the Majura Training area have a serious over-population of eastern grey kangaroos.

The 6,500 animals are facing starvation because of the drought and are causing permanent damage to the sites.

Defence has been trialing a project to reduce the fertility of local kangaroos but ecology consultants have said that will not solve the problem.

Defence has now applied to the ACT Government for permission to use professional shooters to cull up to half the kangaroos.

Acting Environment Minister John Hargreaves says a licence has not been granted yet and there is no firm start date.