What to do if you find stranded or injured wildlife

Sometimes, you find stranded wildlife and want to help, but help is not always needed. It is important to assess the situation before handling any wildlife so we do not put ourselves in a position of danger, or cause more harm to them.

Never, ever, ever…

DO NOT approach snakes, monitor lizards (goannas), bats (flying-foxes or microbats), large macropods (kangaroos or wallabies) or raptors (eagles, falcons or hawks). They either need special skills for handling or are very venomous. If you encounter any of these animals in distress, please call: WIRES Wildlife Rescue Line 1300 094 737

Getting ready

If you see any wildlife in need but you are scared to approach it for any reasons, do not worry: Just call WIRES Wildlife Rescue Line. They will come to the place and deal with the situation. They are trained professionals who know how to handle and restrain wildlife and manage any situation.

If you think that you can handle the situation, first take some time to be prepared. Sometimes it can be stressful for the rescuer and for the wildlife, so it’s better to be organized.

Wildlife Rescue Check list

1. An Old towel: It will help you to restrain most wildlife, especially if it is a bird. It will provide protection for your hands.
2. Cardboard box: Any wildlife in need is going to feel immediately relieved if we provide a quiet, dark and peaceful environment. Make sure it has some holes for extra breathing.
3. Hot water bottle: Most of the time wildlife will be stressed so they will probably be cold. Always make sure that the hot water bottle is covered with a towel or an old jersey.
4. Bowl with fresh water: Stress can cause dehydration.

The best approach is to have the cardboard box ready with the hot water bottle and the fresh water already inside. Place the cardboard box next to you as this will reduce the time you are handling the wildlife, minimizing the probability of being bitten or scratched.

The Rescue

Very gently cover the wildlife with the old towel. Try to be focused on what you are doing. This is the most dangerous part of a rescue. If you get distracted you can be attacked and injured. Once it is restrained, place the wildlife into the cardboard box and close it.

What organizations can help

After the rescue, there are two options:

1. Take it to your nearest Vet, they will give immediate care and first aid.
2. Call Wires Wildlife Rescue Line at 1300 094 737