Many areas of eastern Australia that were devastated by the 2019/20 Black Summer Fires are now inundated by floods.
Wildlife across Australia have been impacted by natural disasters including bushfires in 2020 and now floods in 2021 & 2022. 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.
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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 rescue wildlife in floods?
The first rule of rescue is to ensure that you are safe. Only by caring for yourself can you care for wildlife.
Remember animals caught in floods will be distressed and may become dangerous so minimise any attempt to handle animals yourself.
Attach a ramp or flotation device to the side of the area inundated (such as a rope threaded through a pool noodle). This will allow wildlife to escape if they fall in. Check it regularly if possible.
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.
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