In the face of worsening climate impacts like extreme weather, each of us can do our bit to ensure the welfare and safety of our native birds and animals.
In a wildlife emergency right now? Find the right number to call for your state or territory below.
Who do I call about an injured animal?
- ACT: RSPCA ACT, (02) 5287 8100 or Wildcare (02) 6299 1966
- New South Wales: WIRES, 1300 094 737
- NT: Wildcare, 0408 885 341
- Queensland: RSPCA QLD, 1300 264 625
- South Australia: RSPCA SA, 1300 477 722 or Fauna Rescue SA, (08) 8289 0896
- Tasmania: Bonorong Wildlife Hospital & Rescue, 0447 264 625 (0447 ANIMAL)
- Victoria: Wildlife Victoria, 1300 094 535
- Western Australia: Wildcare Helpline, (08) 9474 9055
Call any of these wildlife hotline numbers for advice, or to have the animal rescued.
With our free wildlife care guide, you can take a copy of these numbers wherever you go,
How else can I help an injured animal?
Our wildlife care guide also has information to spot and care for injured animals in many scenarios, including when worsening climate impacts put our wildlife at great risk.
- How to help wildlife survive extreme heat and drought
- How to help wildlife after heavy rain and flash floods
- How to spot injured wildlife after a bushfire
- How to help urban wildlife thrive in your city or town.
Heat-stressed possums
Photo: Timur Garifov
Possums are particularly vulnerable to heat stress. If they are struggling, they may come out from their hollows or roof cavities and appear lethargic or unresponsive.
If you see possums out during the day, they could be heat-stressed, injured or orphaned. Monitor the possum from a safe distance and call your local wildlife rescue hotline for advice or rescue.
Missing wildlife
Sadly, some of our most unique animals are going missing because of habitat destruction.
In fact, Australia holds the world record for the most mammal extinctions in the world.
Learn more about some of our incredible wildlife that are under threat:
- Bogong Moth
- Eastern Curlew
- Greater Bilby
- Greater Glider
- Grey-headed Flying-fox
- Koala
- Mountain Pygmy Possum
- Platypus
- Spotted-tail Quoll
Header photo: Doug Gimesy