I'm sure that everyone reading this is as devastated and heartbroken about the bushfire crisis as I am, and sadly it's not over yet.
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Many fires are still burning, especially in inaccessible areas, and will continue to have a massive impact on our wildlife and their habitat.
New South Wales has been hit hardest with an estimated 800 million of the one billion animals affected to date and approximately five million hectares of land burnt, with experts saying that some species have likely gone extinct while others are teetering on the brink.
Appallingly, nature in NSW may never be the same again, but it is vital that we do all within our power to assist the natural recovery of both our native wildlife and our mutual environment.
There is a very long road ahead.
Summer is always a busy time for wildlife rescue but, because of the conditions, this season has been frantic.
In December 2019 alone there were over 20,000 calls to WIRES 1300 line, a 14 percent increase on the previous year, and volunteers attended over 3300 rescues.
Unfortunately, that pace has continued into 2020 and shows no signs of slowing down any time soon.
Our branch is always in need of more members, and this catastrophe has only reinforced that need as we are struggling to keep up with the number of calls we are getting for assistance.
Being a member does not require you to be an actual carer unless this is your wish, there are many other ways in which you can help.
For example, administrative positions, transport of animals to and from carers and vets, fund raising, sewing/knitting pouches, making possum boxes, helping with constructing aviaries, pens and shelters to name just a few.
This support is absolutely vital so that we can provide the best possible care and outcomes for the creatures that come our way.
The WIRES mission is to actively rehabilitate and preserve Australian wildlife and inspire others to do the same.
Following the catastrophic events which have befallen our country, this is a mission that is now even more important than ever.
If you would like to join us, or find out more information as to what is involved, please visit the WIRES website:
and check out the information under the Volunteer tab.
If you would simply like to find out more about our wildlife, WIRES has also developed a free online community course called 'An Introduction to Australian Wildlife'.
This course has been designed for people of all ages as an easy introduction to Australian wildlife for individuals and families who are unfamiliar with Australian native animals.
You can access this free course at
In the meantime, a reminder: one thing we can all do in these dry times is to put out water for our thirsty wildlife.
It really is a lifesaver, not only for birds and mammals, but all the other "sometimes forgotten" little creatures that not only share our environment, but are crucial to its health and wellbeing.
Should you need advice or help with injured or distressed wildlife, please ring the WIRES Rescue Number:
- 1300 094 737
Your call will be logged and directed to the appropriate branch electronically when, as always, our volunteers will be only too happy to assist.