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Here are a few ways in which you as an individual can help protect Australian native animals. -
Help your local wildlife Group
Becoming a member, or donating money or goods are just two ways you can help. Native Animal rescue groups can always do with additional facilities such as cages, aquariums, pet-carriers, natural fibre products (Wool blankets, beanies, cotton sheets), natural foods such as mice, insects and earthworms. If you would like to become a member, click
here
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Pets
If you have cats or dogs, ensure they are under control at all times. Dogs should be fenced in or on a leash, and never allowed to roam parks or bushland unsupervised. Cats can be destructive to our native fauna, and should be kept in at night, when they tend to do the most damage. Learn more about the damage that
feral cats are doing to our wildlife. Make sure that unwanted pets are taken care of responsibly. Never dump unwanted pets. It is cruel to the pets, and disastrous to the local fauna.
Do not keep wildlife as pets. Some Australian fauna are legally available through pet shops, but many are protected. It is illegal to capture or keep 'wild' native animals without a permit from the National Parks & Wildlife Service. Many species will not survive in captivity, and have been known to die of shock as a result of being trapped. Others have very specific diets. Some birds will not be accepted back into the wild if they have been in captivity for more than a few weeks, and may be attacked and killed by their own kind.
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Watch out on the Road
Stay alert at dusk and dawn! (Or plan your trip for a different time). Many native animals are nocturnal and forage near the roadside at dusk and dawn. Just being aware of this while driving may save the life of a native animal - and possibly help avoid expensive repair bills.
Consider fitting a Game Warning System to the front of your car. These can be purchase for about $20. By creating a high pitched whistle, animals are warned of approaching vehicles.
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Remove dead animals from the road
If you see a dead animal on the road, consider removing it to the side - if you can do so without putting yourself in danger. This has several benefits - you can quickly check to see if there is a baby in the pouch. It may stop other vehicles from swerving to avoid the carcass, and may save further animals such as eagles which may come to feed on the body.
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Attract Native Animals to your garden
If you plant native trees and bushes - especially ones native to your local area - you will attract the native birds and animals which feed on them. Also, place water bowls around the garden, high enough to be safe from any cats, and keep it supplied with fresh water.
It is wonderful to see our native animals at home in their own environment. Let's do all we can to protect them, and their environment.
Thank You for Caring!
The volunteers of the Native Animal Network Association appreciate you taking the time to browse our web site, and learn how to help keep our unique wildlife safe. We hope that the information on these pages will help you to protect them. | |
