Storm Season Explained: Wildlife safety
Queensland’s wild weather, including floods, storms, bushfires, and extreme temperatures, doesn’t just impact humans but also our native wildlife.
“Unfortunately, animals can’t protect themselves in severe weather events like we can and therefore are at greater risk of being injured – including being blown from trees, becoming waterlogged or impacted by debris,” Dr Valenza said.
“Storm season also coincides with what’s known as wildlife ‘trauma season’ which runs from September to February each year.
“During this time animals are on the move looking for mates, food and shelter and are sadly more likely to be hit by a car or attacked by a dog.
“Australia Zoo’s Wildlife Hospital can have up to 200 patients being admitted per week during trauma season and these numbers are increasing every year.”
Dr Valenza said during, or after, a severe weather event wildlife may need our help.
“One of the best things you can do during storms and floods is to drive carefully at reduced speeds with your headlights on because animals may be on the move seeking shelter,” she said.
“If you come across an injured animal, if you feel comfortable put a towel over it and put it in a box in the back of your vehicle to transport it to a local wildlife clinic.
“If you don’t feel comfortable doing that you can contact Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital any time of the week on 5436 2097.”
Dr Valenza said we also need to be mindful about caring for our own pets during weather events.
“As we continue to see more frequent and severe of weather events, it’s important pet owners include their animals in their emergency plan, considering how you would evacuate with your fury friend and what they may need,” she said.
“Storms are one of the most prevalent phobias in animals and may result in them trying to escape or runaway, which puts them at risk of injuring themselves or getting lost.
“Bring your pets inside to help them stay calm and protect them from the dangerous conditions outside.”
Read more on how to keep pets safe in extreme weather events.
Australia Zoo’s Dr Ludovica Valenza is one of several leading experts featured in RACQ’s Storm Season Explained series. This series provides a deep dive into a range of key issues to help inform and educate Queenslanders ahead of, and during, storm season.
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