Watch out for wildlife near bushfires

Issued: 3 Nov 2023

Residents in bushfire-impacted communities are asked to be mindful of displaced wildlife and report all injured animals to the authorities.

The Department of Environment and Science (DES) is supporting the South East Queensland wildlife hospital network, including Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, RSPCA Qld Wildlife Hospital and Currumbin Wildlife Hospital in preparation for a potential influx of injured wildlife as a result of the current fires.

DES is aware of a small number of injured native animals already being brought into care, but this number may increase as the bushfire situation continues and animals are either directly impacted or displaced by fires.

With bushfires currently impacting large parts of South West and Central Queensland, including close to 30 national parks and state forests, wildlife may turn up in unexpected places.

These animals may be injured or frightened and could try to defend themselves if handled.

If a snake is found in a home or on a private property, members of the public can contact a local licenced contractor to remove it safely. Details of licensed snake removal contractors can be found online or in the yellow pages.

If members of the public discover sick, injured or orphaned wildlife which are not dangerous, they can contact 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625) for advice and connection to local wildlife carers.

Native animals including snakes and koalas are protected under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 and it is an offence to kill, injure or take them from the wild.

Once it is safe to clean up, residents should wear enclosed footwear, gloves and suitable clothing and thoroughly check under furniture or other objects where wildlife could be concealed.

National parks in impacted areas remain closed, or partially closed, due to the current fire situation.

For a full list of national park and forest closures, visit park alerts.