Local wildlife carers are expressing growing frustration over an increasing number of people attempting to care for injured or orphaned native wildlife without the necessary permissions.
While the intentions of these individuals may be well-meaning, the stark reality is that such actions are not only highly illegal but also come with severe consequences, including fines of up to $200,000 and the potential for jail time.
Kylie Hibberd from Kangaroo Kappers Wildlife Sanctuary said one of the major concerns was the potential improper care provided to these animals.
“Animals that are fed the wrong foods, at the wrong times, or kept in the wrong environment also face an arduous recovery and rehabilitation,” she said.
“Often times, it is too late as the damage that has been caused by its initial capture has been too detrimental.”
Certain species, such as birds of prey, koalas, and echidnas, require specialised handling and licenses held exclusively by trained wildlife carers. These carers undergo extensive training, participate in workshops throughout the year, maintain valid licenses for the species they care for, and subject their properties to random inspections.
Importantly, wildlife carers are volunteers who dedicate themselves 24/7 to the well-being of these animals, often without any government funding, covering all expenses from their own pockets.
Two recent cases highlight the urgency and severity of this issue. In one instance just before Christmas, a fledgling magpie was kept in someone’s house for over six weeks before being admitted into care.
Kylie described the bird’s state as horrifying, emphasising the need for timely intervention. The magpie, which had lost its wild instincts, required a prolonged and stressful rehabilitation process. It was quickly relocated to another experienced wildlife carer to aid its recovery.
In a more recent case, a message seeking advice about a fledgling wedgetail eagle was sent to Kylie. Despite providing phone numbers of licensed Birds of prey carers and urging immediate qualified help, the responses indicated that the individuals holding the eagle believed they were experienced enough to handle the situation.
Wildlife experts emphasise the cruelty, danger, and potential harm to both the bird and the public in such misinformed attempts.
As of now, the whereabouts of the fledgling wedgetail eagle remain unknown, and no contact has been made with the authorities.
Concerned citizens are urged to report any information regarding this eagle to WIRES at 0475 294 301 (NSW – Tenterfield) or Kangaroo Kapers Wildlife Sanctuary at 0408 632 357 (QLD – Stanthorpe).
Proper channels must be followed to ensure the welfare and survival of these endangered species.
