Wildlife

Your own safety is paramount. Don’t take risks in attempting to help wildlife (e.g. going on a road when there’s oncoming traffic).

If you come across:

• an injured kangaroo or are driving and have a collision with any animal, you should report it to Access Canberra on 13 22 81 (24 hours). You have a legal obligation to ensure the suffering of the animal is minimised.
• an injured animal (that does not fall into the above category), call ACT Wildlife on 0432 300 033 or (if it is a wombat) call Wombat Rescue on 0424 935 989. They will provide you with more information on what to do. The species, situation and condition of the animal will determine the appropriate next steps.

You should not approach an injured adult kangaroo as, if frightened they can deliver a powerful kick, which can cause severe injury. Do not attempt to rescue or handle bats or flying foxes. Bats and flying foxes can transmit the Australian Bat Lyssavirus through a bite or scratch.

If you spot a baby bird on the ground that you think may have fallen from a nest, check if the parents are around:

• if they are, you should leave the bird and keep any pets away
• if they are not, look at the bird’s feathers:
  • birds with either no feathers or with fluffy down are nestlings that may need immediate help. Either place the bird back in its nest (if you can) or contact ACT Wildlife.
  • birds with flight feathers should be able to reunite with their parents without assistance. They should be left alone as long as they are able to call, are responsive and alert, can perch and spread their wings evenly to flutter.