LOGAN motorists are warned to be on the lookout for wildlife with the traditional start to wildlife breeding season underway.
RSPCA Queensland Wildlife Hospital manager Lee Pirini said August and September was a time when wildlife was typically more mobile and at risk of dog attacks or being hit by cars.
“Since the beginning of July we have had 75 koala related crisis calls,” she said.
“But of course it’s not just koalas. It’s the breeding and birthing season for native wildlife. Strong winds can also contribute with baby birds being blown out of trees and onto areas where they’re at risk of being attacked by dogs and cats.”
South-west Logan wildlife carer Alma Searle has documented multiple cases of injured wildlife on Greenbank Road and surrounding areas in the past couple of weeks alone.
Kangaroos, Wallabies, feather tailed gliders and birds were among some of the animals Ms Searle was called out to attend do.
Ms Searle said motorists needed to take greater care when driving in areas likely to attract wildlife.
“There is just too much development going on and animals are being hit everywhere,” she said.
“Traffic is going too fast in areas where they should be slowing down.”
Ms Searle said the drought was also causing wildlife to move outside their normal habitat.
“Dams are being filled in and rivers are drying up. Animals need water too,” she said.
Ms Piri said wildlife admissions to the RSPCA Queensland Wildlife Hospital had skyrocketed with more than 22,000 native animals and birds treated in 2017.
“Four years ago the number was just under 8000...That’s a staggering increase and really disturbing. Habitat destruction is to blame but we would also urge people to slow down and keep their dogs and cats inside at night.”
Anyone who comes across injured wildlife can call RSPCA’s animal hotline on 1300 ANIMAL.
