The 2010 National Wildlife Rehabilitation Conference was held in Adelaide, South Australia in June. Presentations on post release monitoring, environmental concerns and wildlife policy issues highlighted this seventh national conference. The next meeting is planned for summer of 2012 in Townsville, Queensland.
Veterinary Care and Field Research Aid Australian Wildlife
In addition to presentations on the activities and focus of various wildlife organizations around the country, rehabilitators and veterinarians shared information on improving the care of native wildlife. Wildlife biologist Dr Peggy Rismiller’s ongoing research into the unique life history of the echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus), also called the spiny anteater, gave wildlife caregivers insight into improving rehabilitation techniques for this unusual species.
Effects of Climate Change on Wildlife in Australia
The effects of climate change on wildlife and their habitat was a major topic of discussion. Species such as grey–headed flying foxes (Pteropus poliocephalus) are being seen in areas of the country where they had not previously existed. Migratory species are arriving at breeding and nesting sites earlier than in the past, often before appropriate food sources are available. These changes will have an impact on both rehabilitation and the shape that conservation of wildlife will take in the future.
Concerns about the increase in extreme climate events and the effects on native Australian wildlife were discussed. The devastating 2009 Black Saturday bushfires in Victoria were fresh in everyone's minds and the potential for more frequent and severe fires in some parts of the country is a very real concern.
The potential impact of higher carbon dioxide levels on the composition of plant leaves is also becoming a concern. Certain Australian wildlife species such as the koala (Phascolarctos cinereus), greater glider (Petauroides volans) and ring–tailed possum (Pseudocheirus peregrinus) are completely dependent on a limited number of plants, many of which are beginning to be affected.
Developing National and State Wildlife Rehabilitation Organizations
Wildlife rehabilitation regulations vary greatly from state to state within Australia and wildlife rehabilitators have varying degrees of support from government agencies charged with the conservation of wildlife. A presentation by Jed Goodfellow of the RSPCA, South Australia provided information on developing legal standards for wildlife rehabilitation throughout the country.
Conference attendees also met for discussions on the formation of national and state level organizations to work with government on wildlife issues and begin the process of standardizing care of native animals throughout the country.
Wildlife Rehabilitation Conference Papers Online
Downloadable copies of many of the presentations given at the 2010 National Wildlife Rehabilitation Conference are available online at the conference website. The site also has links to papers from previous conferences. Those interested in attending the upcoming 2012 conference in Queensland can monitor the site for updates.
The National Wildlife Rehabilitation Conference provides wildlife caregivers a chance meet with other rehabilitators, learn more about the Australian wildlife they care for and work toward a more unified approach to native animal conservation.
Dawn M. Smith - A vet nurse, Dawn has worked in wildlife rehabilitation and conservation around the world in addition to her veterinary hospital ...
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