Australia Zoo Hospital

The Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital is busy keeping up with native wildlife requiring life-saving treatment as they face Trauma Season. As the weather heats up, wildlife begins to move about. Many species are on the lookout for water, a friend for mating season and youngsters are beginning to explore. In our increasingly man-made world, this is a challenging and often dangerous time for wildlife, with car strikes and pet attacks as two of the biggest causes for injured animals admitted to the hospital.

Dr Terri Irwin, Founder of Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors said the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital team are bracing for a continuation of the extremely busy start to this year's trauma season given the ongoing destruction of natural habitat, leaving more wildlife vulnerable and at risk.

"From September through February each year, the number of patients in need of treatment and care almost triples. This year has been extremely concerning with over 1,100 animals in just one month," Terri said.

Koala admissions in particular spike at this time of year, the hospital currently has 62 koalas in care, with more arriving every day. "Some days we see seven koalas arrive, and we are quickly running out of room," Terri shared.

"Given the devastating toll the bushfires took on our wildlife earlier this year, it is vitally important for every single one of us to be Wildlife Warriors and do our part to help preserve our native wildlife. It can be as simple as slowing down on the roads at dawn and dusk when our native wildlife is more active and ensuring pets are indoors at night time."

The Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital operates around the clock, 365 days a year and has treated over 95,000 sick, injured and orphaned animals since opening its doors in 2004.

Despite the ever-growing numbers and the costs involved in treating and caring for patients at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, native wildlife is never turned away from help. No matter how small the patient, a life is worth all the time and effort the veterinary team can give. It was Steve's belief that by saving one life, we could ultimately save the species.

If you see wildlife in need, the Australia Zoo Rescue Team can be contacted on 1300 369 652. Learn more about how you can help in the mission for conservation by visiting wildlifewarriors.org.