Incoming high temperatures prompt a reminder to care for our native furry friends.
With temperatures tipped to touch 40ºC in the coming week around the region, residents are reminded simple actions can help native wildlife avoid distress.
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The advice comes after hundreds of grey-headed flying foxes died between Tatura and Echuca during a three-day heatwave earlier this month.
Fly By Night Clinic wildlife rehabilitator Tamsyn Hogarth, who co-ordinates the care and rescue of bats across the state, said an estimated 800 to 1000 died from heat stress in Tatura.
The smaller colony at Echuca cemetery, which can have up to 300 bats, is also thought to have lost around 10 per cent of its population during the same period.
Flying foxes seen grouping together or on the ground indicates severe heat stress, but Ms Hogarth advised concerned community members to keep their distance.
“If they want to get involved, it'd be more just watching from a distance, and taking photos and videos before rushing in to help,” she said.
“It can be more dangerous for that animal if they were going to handle them, and be bitten or scratched.”
Approaching sick bats can cause further stress on the animal, and the public is advised to never touch them, making trained volunteers essential to contact.
Many native species feel the effects of extreme heat.
Photo by
Bree Harding
Heat stress can also be particularly harmful to birdlife, possums and kangaroos, all of which may struggle to find enough water and shelter in high temperatures.
Animals can experience dehydration or heatstroke as a result, which, as in humans, has the potential to be fatal.
To help combat heat stress, residents can leave shallow containers of fresh water around their property, especially in shaded areas to keep it cool.
Various wildlife agencies recommend adding rocks and branches to the containers as an ‘escape ladder’ for animals and insects in case they get stuck.
The water should be changed daily, and community members are advised to never attempt hydrating or feeding animals directly, as they may choke.
Artificial shade, such as garden umbrellas, can be set up for distressed animals, particularly nocturnal species, which may leave their nests or burrows searching for water.
Misting trees and shrubs with water can also help to lower the environment’s ambient temperature.
Those who rescue a heat-stressed animal should wrap it loosely in cotton fabric, and place it in a ventilated box with a lid in a cool, dark and quiet area.
To report a rescue, phone WIRES on 1300 094 737 or, for guidance and emergency responses, phone Wildlife Victoria on 8400 7300.
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