Looking after wildlife

It is important to look after our native wildlife. Some of the ways we can help our wildlife friends include:

  • Providing a bird bath in our garden
  • Keeping our cat in at night
  • Making sure our dog is securely fenced in and on a lead when out and about
  • Planting native trees
  • Remembering not to litter
  • Don’t disturb animals
  • Get help for injured animals

Injured wildlife

Animals in the wild are susceptible to being injured or killed.

They face dangers from other animals, humans, cars, bushfires, floods and land development.

If you come across an injured animal it is very important to approach it safely, as it can often be frightened or distressed and may react aggressively.

Improper rescue can hurt both the animal and the rescuer.

Always wear gloves and use a blanket for protection. It’s also a good idea to wear glasses or goggles to protect your eyes.

Call for help

There are many animal rescue and welfare groups in each state. If you find an injured animal then it is a good idea to call one of them for help.

To find a rescue group in your area, click here.

WIRES

According to the NSW Wildlife information rescue & education service (WIRES), the following points should be remembered if you come across an injured animal.

Wild animals are not used to being handled and are very prone to stress.

If handled improperly, they are likely to struggle and hurt themselves even more.

It is essential to take care with the rescue of any native animal and to reduce the animal's stress as much as possible.

Step 1

Remove any threat to the animal. This may mean locking up cats and dogs until the animal is rescued by a licensed rescuer.

Step 2

Minimise stress by placing a towel or blanket over the animal, then gently place in a box. Put the box in a warm, quiet, dark room and DO NOT DISTURB. The stress associated with human contact can result in death.

Step 3

Seek advice. If you live in New South Wales, call WIRES on 13000WIRES or 1300 094 737.

Alternatively, use the link above to locate your nearest wildlife organisation.

WIRES will give you advice on what to do until a trained WIRES rescuer comes to take the animal to a vet or WIRES foster carer. The foster carer will look after the animal until it is ready to be returned to the wild.

In circumstances where you cannot get in touch with WIRES you can contact your local parks and wildlife service.