How to Help Wildlife affected by fires

Fires raging throughout Victoria at the moment will be devastating for our wildlife. Any that do survive will have lost their homes and food source for at least 3 months it will take for new growth to cover the charred trees.

Come of the wildlife encountered around homes on the fringes of the fire affected areas will be dehydrated, frightened and stressed. They also may be suffering from burns and smoke inhalation – some may be orphaned and many will be starving. This warm weather will also contribute to animals becoming fly-blown where they have burns or wounds.

You can help this wildlife by placing water out for them around the house both on and above the ground, please place a stick inside the container to prevent small animals such as lizards and tiny marsupials from drowning.

Keep domestic animals restrained particularly at night for at least 10 days after a fire has gone through as the wildlife which has been displaced will be highly vulnerable to predators.
Be careful of what food you leave out and where as you may end up feeding rats, foxes and aggressive bird pests such as mynas, starlings and sparrows. Predators will also stake out feeding stations to prey on compromised wildlife. It is always best to seek advice first.

You may find reptiles such as snakes and/or blue-tongued lizards taking shelter under houses, in garages, gardens, verandas and around ponds and pool areas. Wallabies and kangaroos may also visit – Do not attempt capture with these as you can cause myopathy (affects muscles) if chased and they can also inflict serious injuries to humans.

Possums and gliders may turn up in chook sheds, under bushes, laundries and flower pots or under carports looking for a safe dry place to sleep.

Please do not leave food in National Parks – seeds will germinate and spread weeds throughout the bush. Food left in National Parks will also entice foxes, dogs and feral cats to prey on wildlife. If you want to help, please contact your local Parks office.

Experienced and trained Help for Wildlife rescuers and shelters are working together with the authorities to provide expert care to bushfire affected wildlife.

Please help and support your local wildlife shelter.