Living so closely with native animals means that we occasionally come into contact with sick, injured or orphaned wildlife.
Always remember wild animals are not used to being handled and are very susceptible to stress. If handled improperly, they are likely to struggle and hurt themselves even more. It is crucial 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: Call Mid-North Coast Branch of WIRES on 1300 094 737
Please remember: It is against the law to keep native animals taken from the wild. They must be passed on to an authorised carer within a licensed wildlife rescue organisation such as WIRES.