Wildlife Rehabilitation

The Otways supports amazing biodiversity across a wide range of ecosystems – from marine to coastal heathland, dry sclerophyll woodland and rainforest. These ecosystems provide habitat to many indigenous species, some of which are threatened or endangered.

Human activities have a devastating impact upon Australia's wildlife, resulting in many sick, injured and orphaned animals every year.

We owe a duty of care to the wildlife we share our home with and The Cape Otway Centre for Conservation Ecology operates a 24 hour Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre. Wildlife care is an important way of coping with some of the damage humans cause to wildlife populations – the first step can be the hardest, we belive that helping individuals is the that first step towards saving ecosystems.

“We cannot hope to save ecosystems if we turn our backs on individuals.”

Rescued animals are treated, fed and cared for until they can be released back into their natural habitat. You can help us to save these precious animals by coming to stay with us (profits from the Great Ocean Ecolodge support wildlife rehabilitation, education and biodiversity conservation) or by making a tax deductable donation to The Cape Otway Centre For Conservation Ecology Trust. Please contact us for details.

While you are travelling in Australia these points may help you:

What to do if you find injured or orphaned wildlife :

·Please consider your own safety first – use protective gear and work with extra care in dangerous situations (eg. by roads or when handling large or dangerous animals). When in doubt always summon help.

·If the animal is small enough to pick up wrap it in a blanket or towel and place it in a well ventilated cardboard box.

·Keep it warm and quiet (away from people and pets).

·Large animals should be removed from roads if possible and covered with a blanket until help arrives.

·Orphaned marsupial joeys may need extra warmth such as a wrapped hot water bottle (not too hot!)

·Do not attempt to feed or give fluids.

Call Wildline on 0500 540 000 immediately. You will be given contact details of nearby Shelters.

Hints:

·Remember that seals and sea lions will often haul out on beaches for a rest. Please call Wildline if the animal appears sick or injured but do not disturb the animal.

·Dead marsupials should always be checked for joeys in the pouch.

·Always carry a Rescue Kit in the car (towel, woollen blanket, cardboard box, torch, protective gloves and these points).

·Stress can kill wildlife so always keep the animal in a warm quiet place until help arrives.

·Wild animals, especially joeys, have specific dietary requirements, do not place them at risk by feeding them.

·Drive slowly and stay alert when driving in wildlife sensitive areas, especially at dawn and dusk.

·Dispose of your rubbish thoughtfully as pollution kills wildlife.

·Choose non-toxic products for your house and garden as many wild animals succumb to poisoning.

·Keep pets supervised, especially at night.

·Manage your property with wildlife in mind - retain vegetated areas including fallen timber as much as possible and avoid barbed wire.