Extreme weather impacts on wildlife

In the aftermath of a bushfire, numerous wildlife species are significantly impacted, including koalas, kangaroos, possums, wombats, birds, reptiles and more. Many will suffer burns to their feet and tails, as well as smoke inhalation, dehydration, and infection.

The ongoing impact of habitat loss and viable food sources due to fire also places native animals at increased risk of exposure and starvation.

It is crucial to note that fire-injured wildlife may develop complications long after the flames have subsided. Even minor wounds can lead to infections and fatalities if left untreated. These animals may seek refuge on private properties in search of food, water, and shelter.

Your vigilance and timely intervention can make a significant difference in the survival, recovery, or reduction of suffering of these vulnerable creatures. For months after bushfires, it’s important to observe wildlife for signs of distress or injury. Here are key indicators to watch for:

• Wildlife are easier to approach than normal, showing less fear or hesitation around humans.
• Animals appear lethargic, exhibiting reduced activity levels or slower movements than usual.
• Some animals may move slowly or exhibit signs of pain, such as limping or difficulty moving away when approached.
• Koalas seen on the ground could indicate they are injured, distressed or exhausted from the bushfire.
• Nocturnal animals out during daylight hours could indicate injury or distress.

Wildlife can be significantly impacted during and following storms with high winds, heavy rains and flooding. Birds and smaller mammals are particularly at risk in wet weather with a high possibility of them becoming waterlogged, leaving them vulnerable to conditions like hypothermia. Some birds that become extremely waterlogged will be unable to fly, putting them at significant risk of predation.

Birds and smaller mammals are particularly at risk in wet weather with a high possibility of them becoming waterlogged, leaving them vulnerable to conditions like hypothermia. Some birds that become extremely waterlogged will be unable to fly, putting them at significant risk of predation.

Species most likely to be impacted by high wind events include birds and arboreal (tree-dwelling) species. Bird nests may be blown out of trees or nestlings and fledglings may be thrown to the ground. Possums, grey-headed flying foxes, gliders, and koalas are at risk of being injured from falling trees.

Rising flood waters are dangerous to our terrestrial (ground-dwelling) species including kangaroos, echidnas, wombats, and reptiles. Kangaroos can be marooned on islands of incompatible habitat due to rising flood waters, resulting in starvation. Echidnas, wombats, and reptiles may be pushed out of their burrows and left effectively homeless.