What to Do If You Find Injured Wildlife in Tasmania
Across Tasmania’s roads, backyards, and bushland, encounters with injured or orphaned wildlife are sadly common. Knowing what to do in these moments can make all the difference — for the animal’s welfare, and for your safety too. If you do encounter sick, injured or orphaned wildlife there are a few simple things to keep in mind.
STEP 1
keep the animal warm
It’s crucial to maintain the animal’s body temperature, especially if it’s sick or stressed. Many animals, particularly young or injured ones, are vulnerable to temperature fluctuations which can lead to further health complications. Keeping them warm helps stabilise their condition until proper care can be given.
Step 2
keep the animal in a dark place
Darkness provides a sense of security and calm to many animals, reducing stress. Animals often seek out dark areas as a natural instinct to recover, rest, or hide when they feel vulnerable. Bright lights can add to their distress and may even disrupt their circadian rhythm, leading to additional stress or confusion.
Step 3
keep the animal in a quiet environment
Loud noises or chaotic surroundings can stress an animal further, particularly if it’s injured or unwell. A quiet environment provides a sense of safety and helps the animal to calm down. Stress can worsen health issues, so reducing noise is key to keeping the animal as comfortable as possible.
Step 4
keep handling to a minimum
Excessive handling can also cause stress and discomfort to the animal, especially if it’s frightened, injured, or sick. Handling can also lead to further injury or trauma, particularly in vulnerable animals. It’s important to minimise unnecessary contact and allow the animal to rest and heal in a safe space. If handling is necessary, it should be gentle, brief, and purposeful.
Step 5
DO NOT PROVIDE ANY FORM OF FOOD OR DRINK
In certain situations, particularly when an animal is sick, injured, or in shock, offering food or drink can cause more harm than good. For instance, if the animal needs emergency medical care or surgery, ingesting food or liquids could interfere with, or complicate treatment. Additionally, some animals may have difficulty swallowing or digesting without proper medical intervention. Always wait for professional guidance before offering food or drink.
Step 6
CALL BONORONG FOR HELP
Bonorong operates Tasmania’s largest 24-hour wildlife rescue service, providing care and protection to thousands of animals each year. This essential service is supported by a dedicated network of trained community rescuers and wildlife carers, all of whom generously donate their time, energy, and resources to help animals in need.
If you find injured or orphaned wildlife in Tasmania,
call Bonorong on 0447 264 625 any time of the day or night.