Wildlife Care
At Broadford Vet Clinic, we care about the health and wellbeing of all animals, including native wildlife. While it’s tempting to help, handling wildlife requires care and knowledge to ensure their safety — and your own. This page guides you on what to do if you encounter injured or orphaned animals, as well as tips during fledgling season.
What to Do if You Find Injured Wildlife
Finding injured or orphaned wildlife can be distressing, but knowing the right steps can make all the difference. At Broadford Vet Clinic, we provide expert care for native Australian animals and work with licensed wildlife carers to give them the best chance of survival.
Baby Birds on the Ground
Fully feathered fledglings should usually be left in place. Many young birds, including magpies, may seem vulnerable and allow themselves to be picked up, but their parents are often nearby, foraging for food.
Young magpies are highly social and may wrestle with each other—this is normal and not a sign of injury. There is generally no need to interfere with healthy fledglings.
Featherless or barely feathered baby birds, any bird that is bloody, or birds found on roads should be brought to the clinic immediately for care.
Possums and Other Wildlife
Possums attacked by cats need urgent attention. Antibiotics must be administered within 30 minutes of the attack to prevent septic shock caused by bacteria in the cat’s mouth.
During extreme weather events, possums and other wildlife may be more active and approachable. If you find animals on the ground during heatwaves or storms:
Provide fresh, clean water (place a stick in containers to prevent drowning).
Keep animals safe until the weather cools.
Legal Requirements for Wildlife Care
It is illegal to keep native wildlife without a license. Broadford Vet Clinic works closely with licensed wildlife shelters, carers, and transporters to ensure injured or orphaned animals receive proper care and rehabilitation.
When bringing in wildlife, please provide the exact location where the animal was found. This is required by law and helps with rehabilitation and release planning.
Our Commitment
At Broadford Vet Clinic, we are dedicated to the care of native Australian wildlife. We collaborate with experienced carers and shelters to give injured or orphaned animals the best chance of survival. If you find a baby bird, possum, or any other native animal in distress, contact us immediately for advice and care.
