Discarded rubbish is not only unsightly and spoils the beauty of our local area, it can and does injure wildlife and other animals. As wildlife carers we see first-hand the damage that can be caused, which is not only sad, but also frustrating, as it is totally preventable.
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How we dispose of rubbish can help prevent injuries and death to inquisitive or hungry creatures.
Fishing line and netting left laying around are a major hazard. Likewise fishing hooks can be swallowed by unsuspecting creatures, causing them much suffering and a slow and painful death. This doesn’t just apply to coastal areas, it also happens on inland waterways. For example, a Crested Grebe was found entangled in fishing line at Pejar Dam. Thankfully the bird was uninjured and, after being freed, was able to be released immediately. Others, like a Long-necked Turtle rescued from Wyangala Dam after swallowing a fishing hook, are not so fortunate.
We all use bottles with a plastic seal around the top. How we dispose of this small ring can be the difference between life and death for unwitting wildlife. Before disposal, cut it open so it no longer poses a threat.
Plastic bags, the bane of modern society, are seen along almost every roadside. Many end up in waterways entangling turtles and platypus, or wash out to sea causing untold damage and slow death to marine creatures.
Drink cans are deadly traps. Snakes are one species that become trapped while exploring the inside of a can. If a snake slithers its head through the opening, it may be unable to get it back out, as its scales do not bend backwards, therefore keeping it pinned at the neck.
Then there is the orchard netting, often seen as discarded piles about yards or sheds when no longer needed, or loosely draped over fruit trees and veggie gardens to protect plants. Many creatures get tangled up in the netting, suffering constriction, dehydration and starvation. Never use thin nylon netting. Use only the thicker knitted netting, making sure the holes are small enough so that you can’t poke your little finger through. Ideally, the netting needs to be tightly woven with a mesh of only 2mm and stretched tight over a frame
Glass from broken bottles can cut the feet or mouths of unsuspecting wildlife when running or grazing. Many suffer infections that can be fatal, or are crippled, inhibiting their ability to survive.
Sounds depressing? It need not be. If we only spare a thought for the other creatures with which we share our environment, and clean up after ourselves, or after others less responsible.
- For advice or help with injured or distressed wildlife, call WIRES on 1300 094 737