Wildlife across Australia have been impacted by natural disasters including drought and bushfire. If you would like to help wildlife that you find in your backyard or in Australia’s big backyard we have put together some tips on the best way to help our backyard buddies.
Top five ways to help wildlife recover from drought and bushfires:
1. Consider regular donations to the Foundation for National Parks & Wildlife
2. Install a bird bath or water station (that is safe from cats)
3. Plant native trees
4. Keep your cat indoors
5. Remove unsafe netting from trees
What should I do if I find injured or orphaned wildlife?
If you find injured or orphaned wildlife you should contact local wildlife volunteers.
What is the best way to leave water out for wildlife?
Setting up water stations is a great idea but remember that our native animals come in all shapes and sizes: Small animals can drown in large containers and large animals may not be able to access water provided with small outlets.
Make your pool a wildlife-friendly drinking spot by attaching a ramp or flotation device to the side of the pool (such as a rope threaded through a pool noodle). This will allow wildlife to escape if they fall in while drinking. Check it daily.
Should I leave food out for wildlife?
Native animals have very specific food requirements. Feeding wildlife is normally discouraged as it can cause dependency, encourage pests and spread disease. This advice is for short term feeding in areas where extreme drought and bushfire has created exceptional circumstances.
Find out more about your buddies
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