Our 5441 6200 Hotline deals regularly with the disastrous results of feeding wildlife. A major issue is metabolic bone disease with our wild bird populations. Magpies are the main species seen with this lethal disease. This is a result of incorrect diet being fed by humans. The damage occurs at very early stages of development, but does not manifest itself until chicks emerge from the nest. They are then found on the ground and taken to vets or wildlife hospitals. By then it is too late. There is no reversing the damage once bones fracture, and if left untreated the bones will fracture. It is very distressing to see xrays of these birds. Euthanasia of wildlife is always sad to see, but the option of letting an animal die slowly in the wild is cruel.
For new members, it is hard to say goodbye to their first patients, but seeing them in the wild is such a joy. We have recently taken kangaroos to their release site, five joeys ‘mobbed’ from different carers. How lovely to see them free, though under observation! Last week two lorikeet chicks were off to release. A week on site at their new home, away from the perils of suburbia, saw them interacting with the local rainbow lorikeets and freedom beckoned. What a site to see them soaring off up into the trees, calling encouragement to each other. Of course, they returned home for extra food when they felt the need!
The enquiries are rolling in to our WILVOs website and Hotline 5441 6200 about bookings to our next WILVOS induction day. The website has membership application forms, or alternatively phone the Hotline.
All our members care for wildlife in their own way. Regular training sessions are held on the different species. We all began knowing very little! People choose to become wildlife rehabilitators, or transporters, or hotliners. Others may wish to find out more about our native animals. The Hotline runs from our own phones on a diversion system. Help is always at hand in all fields!
Think about becoming a wildlife carer on the 15th May at the Induction and New Carers Workshop 10am to 2pm
Donna Brennan Wildlife Volunteers Assoc Inc (WILVOS) PO Box 4805 Sunshine Coast Mail Centre Q 4560 PH 5441 6200 www.wilvos.org.au