Ask The Expert

The first step is to assess the situation carefully and approach the animal slowly to avoid causing additional stress or harm. If possible, contact a local wildlife rescue group or our helpline for guidance before attempting any direct intervention

Only handle an injured animal if it’s safe to do so and you are confident in your ability to help without causing further harm. Use a towel or blanket to cover and gently lift small animals, keeping them in a quiet, warm, dark space until you can reach a wildlife rescuer or veterinarian.

Avoid feeding or giving water to the animal, as it may have internal injuries or special dietary needs. Food and water can sometimes do more harm than good. Wait for instructions from a wildlife expert.

Injuries aren’t always obvious, but signs like limping, bleeding, breathing difficulty, or unusual behaviour (e.g., a nocturnal animal active during the day) often indicate the animal needs help. When in doubt, contact our helpline or a wildlife expert for advice.

For injured birds, approach slowly, using a towel or cloth to gently cover it if you need to contain it. Place the bird in a well-ventilated box with a lid and transport it to a wildlife carer or veterinarian. Always seek expert advice before taking further action.

For larger animals, it’s best not to approach without professional assistance. Injured kangaroos or wallabies can be dangerous. Call a wildlife rescue service immediately and, if safe to do so, stay near the animal to keep an eye on its condition until help arrives.

If you find a snake that appears to be injured, do not attempt to handle it. Contact a licensed snake catcher or a wildlife rescue organisation. Handling snakes can be very dangerous and should only be done by professionals.

Yes, many vets will assist with injured wildlife. If you can safely transport the animal, place it in a secure, dark box with ventilation and take it to the nearest veterinary clinic. Be sure to call ahead, as some clinics may have specific instructions.

Yes, handling and transporting wildlife is regulated, so always contact a wildlife rescue organisation before intervening. In many cases, it’s best to wait for licensed rescuers, especially with native animals.

Some animals, like young joeys or birds, may appear abandoned but are actually being cared for by their parents nearby. Observe from a distance before intervening, and if you’re unsure, call a wildlife expert for guidance.

No, wildlife care requires specific skills, training, and permits. Injured animals should be taken to licensed wildlife carers or veterinarians who have the experience to provide appropriate care.

Rescued animals are assessed and treated by wildlife carers or vets. If they recover, the goal is always to release them back into the wild, in their natural habitat. If an animal cannot be returned to the wild due to severe injuries, care organisations will make appropriate arrangements in line with conservation guidelines.

Take care on roads, especially in areas with high wildlife activity. Keep pets contained, especially at night, to reduce the risk to local wildlife. Dispose of rubbish responsibly, and advocate for wildlife-safe fencing in areas with known animal crossings.

Yes! Donations are greatly appreciated and go directly towards care, food, veterinary treatment, and resources for injured wildlife. Visit our donations page for more information.