Extreme heat troubling our wildlife

Koala joey Connie was found by campers next to her dead mother at Ulupna Island last week after higher than average autumn temperatures.

Fortunately, the 10-month-old koala was rescued and taken in by wildlife carer Deb Fowler from the Kotupna shelter.

Extreme heat conditions can harm animals and put them at risk of dying. Because of this, DELWP Hume Region is encouraging residents to be on the lookout for stressed wildlife.

DELWP senior compliance officer Leigh Murray said they had had reports of some koalas and many birds falling ill from heat stress as this hot weather continued.

“The hot and dry conditions can make it hard for both young and old animals as well as injured wildlife,” she said.

“People can help these animals by supplying a water source near them and contacting a registered wildlife carer if their condition does not improve.”

Fortunately, Connie the koala is doing well.

“We are unsure what her mother died from after a heat event,” Ms Fowler said.

Ms Fowler said it was important for people to phone for help and not wait until the next day or the day after to call if the animal was in distress.

If you see a native animal in distress from heat exhaustion or injury, phone RACV Wildlife Connect on 131 111 or Wildlife Victoria on 1300 094 535.

 

Shepparton's Country News story by Sionnie Kelly.