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Cohabiting with respect: Australian wildlife

Australia is world-renowned for its vast array of beautiful fauna and simultaneously infamous for its huge range of chart-topping poisonous and venomous animals. Mythical creatures such as the drop bear (which is possibly pictured on the right, credit to David Clode), and legendary animals passed down via First Nation folklore that describes amazing beasts like the bunyip and yowie adds to the incredible stories associated with the Australian nature scene.

As a veterinarian and pharmacist residing and practicing in Australia, I often encounter queries from the general public wanting to know about certain aspects of wildlife- from what to do when encountering wildlife that appear to be in need of assistance, to questioning possible diseases that may be associated with interacting with certain wildlife species.

What this website is not meant for

This website is a pet project of mine, and reflect only my experience and research that I have gathered and is not intended to replace or advocate against any advice given by your own human healthcare professional, veterinarian or curriculum taught by your institute. I will not dispense advice such as medication usage, including name and dosage for your specific situation, as this requires an existing doctor/patient/client relationship, which if absent is both unethical and illegal.

Quick advice...

Some things to keep in mind when encountering wildlife

On the road

If you encounter wildlife whilst in a moving vehicle, do not swerve to avoid the animal. There is a high chance you will damage your vehicle and likely kill the animal, but the high risk of hitting a tree is responsible for many deaths on Australian roads. Instead, drive straight on the road, and if the situation allows, to brake responsibly and honk your horn.

Injured wildlife

Expert advice and approval must be sought before attempting to handle any wildlife. Click on the contact links to find an organisation or wildlife rescuer in your state or area that are trained and equipped to deal with specific animal needs. Depending on the state, interacting with protected species requires a permit. Injured wildlife may carry diseases and may scratch or bite due to pain or fear.

Contact wildlife specialists

Lone baby animals

Do not approach and attempt to handle baby animals that appear to be abandoned, as helpless as they may seem. Some species of animals may leave their young behind for various reasons and disturbing them may lead to negative consequences for the animals involved.

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