The Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital is responding to a dangerous and unprecedented weather event that struck South East Queensland overnight, leaving dozens of animals injured and in urgent need of help.
More than 60 patients were admitted in the early hours of the morning, with additional animals continuing to arrive from across the region.
Dr. Ludo Valenza, Wildlife Hospital Manager, said, “It’s all hands on deck at the Wildlife Hospital as we continue to navigate the influx of injured and displaced wildlife.”
“The destructive winds, hail and heavy rain have caused mass habitat destruction, tearing down trees, destroying nests, and leaving countless baby animals stranded on the ground,” said Dr. Valenza.
“The most common patients we are seeing are birds, with many chicks blown from their nests and found on the ground in desperate need of help.”
Among the many birds displaced from their nests are Penelope, a tiny crested pigeon; three young herons found at the base of a tree after destructive winds brought it down; and two juvenile spoonbills, Soupy and Douglas, who were also found on the ground.
Our state-of-the-art rehabilitation facility is also treating other animals affected by the storms, including Polly, a common ringtail possum who fell from a tree and sustained injuries to both back legs. Polly’s two joeys, Lolly and Solly, were clinging to her back and thankfully survived without injury. The joeys will lovingly remain by their Mum’s side as she recovers under the expert care of our veterinary team.
“These animals have had a tough run, but our entire team at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital is working around the clock to ensure every single patient receives the treatment and care they deserve,” Dr. Valenza said.
The Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, available to help sick, injured and orphaned wildlife.
