Emergency Care

Wildcare Helpline (08) 9474 9055

Remember: All native animals are protected and a severe penalty can be imposed on anyone keeping native wildlife without a licence. Animals reared on their own are often not releasable.

• If you find a native animal, providing emergency care as soon as possible is critical to its survival.
• Your safety and welfare are paramount – make sure it is safe before attempting to rescue a native animal. Look out for sharp claws and beaks - they are wild animals and will often seek to defend themselves. Consider wearing gloves and eye protection (sunglasses).
• Where possible get someone to help you.
• Be prepared, keep a towel, box/carry container, large empty drink bottle and hand cleaner in your car
• Make sure the animal you are helping actually needs your care. Often birds that appear to be orphaned may just be waiting for a parent to return from foraging.
• Do not feed or water the animal, until the animal has been properly assessed – the wrong feed can cause serious problems and some birds do not drink water.
• Stress is a killer, handle the animal as little as possible, get it into a suitable container as soon as possible and do it as quietly as possible. Temporary confinement could be a cardboard box, a pillowcase or hessian sack tied off or a covered laundry basket, depending on the animal.
• In cold weather, fill an empty drink bottle with hot water, wrap in towel and place with animal to provide warmth.
• In hot weather, use an air-conditioned car for transport.
• DO NOT CARRY THE ANIMAL ON YOUR LAP IN THE CAR – this practice is dangerous for you and stressful and dangerous for the animal.
• Contact Native Animal Rescue for advice. We are available to assist 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• Animals may harbor diseases that are transferable to humans, so wash your hands and your clothes after close contact.