Injured native animals are highly susceptible to stress and must be handled with care. Acting calmly and appropriately can significantly improve the animal’s chance of recovery.
It is illegal to keep native wildlife taken from the wild. Animals must be transferred to a licensed wildlife rescue organisation.
Do not attempt to handle or move injured, trapped or dead bats yourself, only wildlife professionals who are properly trained in handling bats, rabies vaccinated, and are wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment should handle them due to the disease risk to humans. Contact a wildlife rescue organisation for assistance.
Members of the public must not be involved with the rescue of snakes and are encouraged to stay a safe distance away from the animal to minimise the risk of snake bite. Contact a licensed wildlife rescue organisation for safe handling and transport to veterinary assistance.
For after-hours assistance for sick, injured or orphaned wildlife outside of opening hours, please contact:
If you are outside Sydney, locate a licensed wildlife rescue organisation in your area (IFAW app) to ensure appropriate and timely care.
Native wildlife have unique and specialised diets, improper feeding can cause serious harm or death.
No. It is illegal to keep native wildlife without appropriate licences. Wildlife must be cared for by licensed wildlife rehabilitators, and registered veterinarians to provide them with expert care.
Native wildlife relies on familiar territories for survival. Accurate location data is critical for an animal's survival, ecological balance, population dynamics and supports successful release outcomes.
Our UVTHS team can care for wildlife brought into the clinic by members of the general public. The Sydeny team work in conjunction with WIRES to facilitate the most appropriate care for the animal.
UVTHS does not see native species and exotics kept as pets, we advise you find an alternative clinic for routine and emergency care.
