Many people in the community come across sick or injured wildlife in their backyards. In many cases the very first thing they want to know is – who do I ring?
Tips to help you find a licensed wildlife carer:
- Contact your local wildlife care group, vet clinic or wildlife hospital.
- Contact Wildlife Rescue Australia on 1300 596 457.
- Contact your state Wildlife Authority. (Appendix I)
This Grey Goshawk was found in a park, in very poor condition. Using thick gloves, a towel was thrown over the bird, scooping it up securely and placing it in a cardboard box. Always puncture a few holes at the top of the box for ventilation and place a folded towel at the base. Cardboard boxes are ideal for putting a sick bird in, as the smooth surface of the cardboard protects their feathers. Caring for raptors is a specialised field – these birds have powerful talons and strong sharp beaks. The goshawk was immediately taken to a vet clinic for assessment, but unfortunately it was too weak and had to be euthanased. Raptors must be 100% fit and healthy to survive in the wild. (See Chapter 8: Birds)