We’re surrounded by some pretty sensational wildlife here in our little slice of the world, however, many of our local roads cross paths with crucial wildlife habitats, and unfortunately, this can lead to accidents and injuries for our native pals. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back with a handy guide on how to make a difference if you come across wildlife that’s hurt or in need.
What to do
When you’re on the road and spot an injured animal, consider stopping to help only if you can do so safely. If the road’s busy or there’s no clear spot to pull over, it’s smarter not to risk it. Instead, find a safer spot, then call and report the situation – better to stay out of harm’s way!
In times of bushfires or floods, things can become pretty tough for our local wildlife. If you come across an animal in your yard or somewhere else that’s been impacted by a natural disaster, the top priority is getting help for those injured native critters. Quick reporting can make a world of difference!
During drought or fires, our native buddies might need a helping hand with water, food, or a safe spot. Just make sure you’ve got permission from the landowner or manager before offering food or water, especially in places like national parks, state forests, and council lands. If you’re in a park, feeding animals needs the nod from park authorities and no leaving behind food scraps or containers, please.
In the event of floods, our furry friends might need a dry spot to hang out until things calm down. But hold off on giving food, water, or heat unless a licensed wildlife pro or vet gives the green light.
Who do you call?
Okay, let’s clear up the confusion. Who do you call when wildlife needs a hand? Is it the vet? Local council? Or Rescue Service?
According to local Council when reporting injured wildlife there are a choice of recommended options.
The first is Wildlife Rescue South Coast, which covers the whole NSW coast south region all the way from Wollongong down to the Victorian border and including the Southern Highlands. [Good to know if you’re ever on a little coastal getaway and spot an injured native friend].
Their website offers some great tips on what you should and shouldn’t do if you find injured wildlife and how to notify them of your location when you make a call. For anyone north of Batemans Bay [that’s us] the number to call is 0418-427-214 and they are always looking for volunteer helpers and members if you’re keen to get involved.
Native Wildlife Rescue is a non-profit organisation in the Southern Highlands. They are a regional member of Wildlife Rescue South Coast Inc. They are hyper-local and understand the unique difficulties that our Highlands wildlife face. They are a great resource for all things wildlife rescue and their best number to call is 0418427214.
Another option is WIRES, these guys are Australia’s largest wildlife rescue organisation so you’ve probably heard of them. Their hotline is open 24/7 for wildlife info or rescue advice and you can even report a rescue through their website. The website also provides tons of information on the different types of furry, scaly or feathered friends you might come across and the best strategies for each. Their number is 1300 094 737.
EXTRA TIP: If you find an injured wombat, there is another amazing organisation you can call. Wombat Care Bundanoon is all about showing love to our friendly, four-legged bush bulldozers. They have loads of info on what to do if you come across one in need. Their number to call is 0490 659 245.
What about the vet?
There are many animals that most rescue organisations recommend you don’t touch or approach without a wildlife professional around but there are also some who are safer to handle. Once you have spoken to a rescue organisation they might recommend that you wrap the animal up safely and take them to the vet. Most vets will treat sick or injured wildlife but be sure to call ahead to double-check.
Never try to take them home and care for them yourself. Bringing a native animal back to health without proper authorization is against the law and could lead to legal trouble. And remember native animals are not pets- no matter how cute and fluffy they are.
Whilst you’re waiting
If the rescue organisation or vet gives you the go-ahead to provide some care for the animal whilst you are waiting for them to arrive or on your way to them, there are some care tips you can be mindful of.
To catch the animal, covering it with a towel or blanket can help. Once you’ve got it, aim to keep the little critter calm and safe – a cardboard box or a covered cage does the trick. Just make sure it’s secure so the animal can’t make a great escape. Find a quiet, dark spot for the box, and unless a vet or wildlife expert advises it, skip the food and water for now.
For baby animals or birds that have been orphaned, warmth is key. Keep your pets and people at a good distance – stress from being seen, heard, or handled can be a real danger.
What about roadkill?
Run-ins with wildlife are a sad reality on our roads, but there are some things you can do to help. Keep in mind, a deceased marsupial might still carry baby joeys in its pouch – give it a look. Rescuers usually mark animals with paint to let other rescuers and locals know that it has been checked.
If you can, try moving dead animals away from the roads. It helps protect their predators from becoming road casualties too.
If you find dead animals in a NSW national park or reserve, call the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) on 1300 072 757.
Dawn and dusk are bustling hours for our local critters like koalas and kangaroos, so if you can, steer clear of driving during those times. If you do end up colliding with an animal, safety first – check on yourself and your passengers before tending to the animal. And before stepping out of your car, don’t forget to scan for traffic and take a look at the surroundings. Don’t risk your life.
