Central Victorians are being urged to contact an authorised wildlife shelter if they encounter sick or injured native animals these school holidays.
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Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning forest and wildlife officer Phuong Tran said sometimes people tried to look after the animals themselves but sick native wildlife needed specialised care.
“Even though members of the public mean well when they find sick or injured wildlife and take them home to care for them, it is critical for the animals’ survival that they are treated by trained carers,” she said.
“There are volunteer wildlife shelter operators and carers who are authorised by DELWP and they know how to provide appropriate handling, feeding and housing as well as rehabilitation.”
Ms Tran said there had been cases where people had found a native animal and cared for it at home rather than contacting an authorised wildlife carer.
“As a result, the animal becomes attached to the person who found it and so it becomes almost impossible for the animal to survive if it was to be released back into the wild,” she said.
“Not only can it be harmful for the animal if it does not receive appropriate care, it is also an offence under the Wildlife Act to unlawfully possess protected wildlife.”
People can face fines of up to $7929 and six months imprisonment for the unlawful possession of protected wildlife.
“If you do find an injured animal, approach with caution, keep physical interaction to a minimum and contact an authorised wildlife shelter immediately,” Ms Tran said.
“The qualified carer will then be able to provide you with the best advice on how to proceed.”
If you find a native animal that is orphaned, sick or injured, contact DELWP on 136 186 or one of the wildlife rehabilitation organisations listed on DELWP’s website at www.wildlife.vic.gov.au