Sick, injured or orphaned wildlife will be highly stressed, can be dehydrated and in shock. They often mask their pain and injuries to have us believe that all is “normal”. Quite often, people find wildlife and assume they are “pets” due to their calm nature.
Native animals are susceptible to stress and this alone can kill them. Any wild animal needs to be approached with care. We don’t want to further injure the animal being rescued or have harm come to you, the rescuer.
Depending on the species we need to watch for bites and scratches!
So, what do we do if we find sick, injured or orphaned wildlife?
- Secure the animal to prevent further injury (for example a box, with a thick cloth on the bottom so the animal is not sliding around in the box)
- Keep the animal warm (wrapping the animal , will not keep them warm, hot water bottles wrapped in a towel/blanket, etc. Joeys, depending on size can be kept close to the body).
- Keep the animal in a quiet area away from loud noises such as tv’s, stereos, pets and children).
- Keep the animal covered (dark area, covered with blanket towel)
- Do not offer the animal any food or water (as this can hinder any treatment they will receive and over the phone we cannot always confirm species. Native animals require a specialised diet. Any attempts to feed can stress the animal further)
- Do NOT over handle the animal. (Often these animals can appear tame when really they are in shock).
- Seek immediate assistance!
WILDCARE HELPLINE (08) 9474 9055 (WA Only)
WILDLIFE RESCUE AUSTRALIA 1300 596 457 (Australia Wide)
Basic Wildlife Rescue Skills Sessions
We run “Basic Wildlife Rescue Skills” sessions for people interested in knowing what to do if they find injured wildlife. If you are interested in having one in your area, let us know!
You will learn;
- How to assess if wildlife needs assistance
- How to safely handle some species of wildlife
- Who to contact in emergencies
All Rehabilitators attending are DBCA Registered and have done all relevant training.
Contact us HERE or call 0498 059 256
Perth Wildlife Rescue Network 