Injured Wildlife
at St George Vets
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Injured Wildlife – What to Do
Helping native animals in need
If you come across injured or distressed wildlife, it’s important to act with care and follow the correct steps to ensure their safety, and your own.
Do Not Attempt to Handle Dangerous Wildlife
For your safety, do not approach or attempt to handle the following animals:
- Snakes
- Monitor lizards (goannas)
- Bats (flying-foxes or microbats)
- Large macropods (kangaroos or wallabies)
- Koalas
- Raptors (eagles, falcons, hawks)
Instead, call WIRES Wildlife Rescue on 1300 094 737 to report the incident. Be prepared to provide the exact location where the animal was found so a licensed rescuer can be dispatched if necessary.
If the Animal Is Safe to Contain
If the animal is not dangerous and can be safely contained (e.g. small birds, possums), follow these steps:
- Gently contain the animal using a towel or gloves and place it in a well-ventilated box lined with soft material.
- Keep the box in a warm, dark, and quiet place, this helps reduce the animal’s stress.
- Do not offer food or water unless specifically instructed by a veterinarian or WIRES.
- Transport the animal to your nearest vet. Most veterinary clinics, including SGV, provide initial treatment for wildlife free of charge.
- Call ahead to let the clinic know you are bringing in injured wildlife.
After You’ve Dropped Off the Animal
Let WIRES know which vet you took the animal to, so they can follow up and arrange care or rehabilitation if needed. This step helps ensure the animal gets the best chance of recovery.
Report a Rescue Online
Prefer to report online? Use the WIRES Report a Wildlife Rescue Form.
If you have any questions about injured wildlife in our area, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help support both you and our native species.