Emergency Wildlife Phone Service - 07 5527 2444 (24 X 7)

EMERGENCY WILDLIFE PHONE SERVICE - 07 5527 2444 (24 X 7)

EDUCATION WILDLIFE REHABILITATION RESCUE

Spring 2008, Issue 50 WILDNEWS The Newsletter of WILDCARE AUSTRALIA, INC.

This newsletter is proudly sponsored by BRETT RAGUSE MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR FORDE

Wildcare Australia, Inc. Page 1 Veterinarian - Dr. Jon Hanger 07 5436 2097 Wildcare Australia Office 07 5527 2444 (8am to 4pm Tuesday - Friday) Wildcare Education and Training 07 5527 2444 Website: www.wildcare.org.au Email: enquiries@ wildcare.org.au P.O. Box 2379, Nerang Mail Centre, Queensland 4211

MAIN COMMITTEE IN THIS ISSUE: President Gail Gipp Vice-President’s Report 3 Vice-President Karen Scott From the Office 3 Secretary Tracy Paroz

Assistant Secretary Dianna Smith Wildlife Phone Service 4

Membership Secretary Trish Hales Shop News 5

Treasurer Kirsty Arnold Coordinator’s Corner 6 - 9 Keeping the Dream Alive 10 Education Karen Scott Kathryn Biber Wildcare Training Workshops 11 Record Keeper Renée Rivard Official Business 12 Assistant Record Kiersten Jones Keepers Amy Whitham WILD WORLD: Namibia 13

Newsletter Eleanor Hanger SPECIES SPOTLIGHT: Baby Birds 14 - 15 Renée Rivard Toby Clinch Rescue Stories 16 SCIENTIFIC ADVISORY SUBCOMMITTEE On the Lighter Side 17 Prof. T. Heath Dr D. Sutton Prof. W. Robinson Dr C. Pollitt PJ’s Wildcare for Kids 18 - 19 Dr R. Kelly Dr A. Tribe Photo Gallery 20 LEGAL ADVISER PHOTOGRAPHS Mr I. Hanger Q.C. K. Clark New Members 21 M. Dona Supporters 22 - 23 HONORARY T. Eather SOLICITOR E.M. Hanger Position Vacant J. Hanger R. Rivard S. Smith K. Scott R. Webster

T. Wimberley

SUBMISSIONS

If you are interested in submitting an article or photograph for inclusion in the next newsletter, please submit to [email protected] before

3rd January 2009

The views expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily those of WILDCARE AUSTRALIA or of the editors.

Wildcare Australia, Inc. Page 2

VICE-PRESIDENT’S MUDGEERABA SHOW There is an awful amount of hard REPORT 5TH & 6TH JULY 2008 work involved with exhibits of this kind, and I am very grateful for all the help I received from our volunteers The year is going by so fast. This show was going to be the BIG and friends. Firstly, thank you to my We are already in Spring and it one, with the Mudgeeraba Show So- very patient father-in-law, Bret, who th won’t be long before Christmas ciety celebrating their 80 year. A transported most of the equipment is here. Wildcare representative was invited and erected the marquee with the to attend the Official Opening and all help of Rose Zalewski. Thank you, was looking good. I would encourage everyone to Rose. Rose also set up games for help out in the Spring “crazy the children and helped all weekend. bird season” this year. Birds I wanted to put in an extra effort with Lee-Ann Burgess attended both days account for approximately two- our exhibit and have an entry in the and kept my spirits up. Cerri-Lee Van thirds of the animals coming Grand Parade, as this was also a Buuren arrived with Marly Woods, into care. As wildlife rehabilita- BIG one for Wildcare; this was our 5th Barb Dwyer and many relatives in tors, we all have the responsi- year of attendance at the show. toe to help. Thank you all! My big- bility of ensuring the prompt Great plans were made, costumes gest “thank you” must go to the Sen- rescue and treatment of these hired and calls made to volunteers to ior family - Diane, Murray, Shawn, species. Thank you to Mimi, help. Aleisha and Justin. They purchased great toys and lollies, and made Dianna, Renée and the staff at the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital great lucky dips. They stood there in for conducting two wonderful We set up on an overcast but dry the rain and helped for two days. bird workshops recently. Every- Friday, and all was ready for a busy Most of our takings of $432 were due one who attended learned a lot Saturday. to the Seniors and Rose Zalewski. – thank you guys. On Friday night the heavens opened Here’s hoping 2009 will be dry and Thank you also to those mem- and the rain rocketed down all night. sunny. bers of the Management Com- On Saturday morning it continued and everything was awash. Shawn mittee who continue to juggle Trish Hales work, animals, family and study Senior dashed out and purchased an to help run the organization. A annex to extend our marquee to try particular thank you to Tracy to keep us dry, and then the water RECORD KEEPER’S Paroz, Renée Rivard and Amy poured in under the tent and around Whitham who have taken a our feet. DATA REQUEST REGISTER huge load off my shoulders in recent times. People stayed away. The rides were During the last quarter, Wildcare

closed. The Grand Parade was can- carer records have been used to I hope you all have a great celled and the entertainment and respond to the following data re- fireworks were also cancelled. All in Spring! quests. all, it was a very sad day.

Karen Scott Gold Coast City Council (GCCC): However, we did attend the Official •Koala data for northern GC WILDCARE WEBSITE Opening (under cover) and gratefully •Domestic animal attacks for GC accepted a donation of $250 from REDESIGN the Mudgeeraba Show Society, and

we commiserated with one another. Queensland Wildlife Rehabilitation Over the next several Council (QWRC):

months, the Management •Road kill data for QLD Dept of Main Committee will be exploring On Sunday the sun almost came out Roads survey for a few hours and things began to options to redesign the Wild- look up. care Australia website. If you Currumbin Wildlife Hospital

know of any professional (CWH): website designers who may Thanks to the Senior family who •2007 outcomes of CWH animals rehabilitated by Wildcare members be interested in offering their made lucky dips and other activities; we did well for a few hours and then time and service to help us, the rain threatened again and so we Karen Scott: please email packed up and called it a day. •Koala dog attacks [email protected].

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WILDCARE’S 24-HOUR EMERGENCY WILDLIFE PHONE SERVICE

WHO ARE THE MOPS proximately 25 new volunteers reg- Australia! Also, please mention istered for our next phone training which shift you can work. I will re- workshop in January 2009! turn your call as soon as I can. You can only find out by answering the Wildcare Australia 24-hour Emergency Telephone!!! HOWEVER!!!!! For the busy We really look forward to hearing months of October, November and from you soon. December, we are extremely short We still need your help for October, of helpers. If you have helped with Liz Meffan November and December. Our last the phones in the past, we would 3 months were very successful. love to hear from you. Unfortunately With so many new operators donat- because these next 3 months are ing a minimum of 3 hours a month, so busy, we can only accept our small core group of operators experienced operators. has been able to take a well-earned Ea break from the large number of rned ONL shifts that some were covering. PLEEEEEEZE! Pick up the phone Red Y by eema Pho ble ne V YES! 3 hours a month does make now and give us a desperately at th olies e Wi a huge difference! needed helping hand! Call 5527- COM ldcar ING e Sh 2444 today and register to become SOO op N!! a phone volunteer with Wildcare More good news…we have ap-

Wildlife Land Trust Members Membership currently includes a non- b i n d i n g Saving Crucial Habitat for Wildlife ‘letter of agreement’ which spells out our joint commitment to protecting wildlife, a certificate of membership, a good guide to managing your property, regular The Humane Society International (HSI) is one of the newsletters, access to our WLT group website, signs world’s largest conservation and animal protection for your property and further advice on stronger pro- organisations, with over 10 million members world- tection methods for properties, as well as becoming a wide and 40,000 in Australia. HSI promotes the en- part of a worldwide network of like-minded sanctuary hancement and conservation of all wild plants and owners. animals and the protection of all living things from cru- elty and neglect both nationally and internationally. What can you do now?

One of our programs, the Wildlife Land Trust (WLT), You can go to www.wlt.org and have a look at what which began in Australia in 2006, aims to protect and many people have been doing around the world to provide sanctuary for wild animals by preserving their protect wildlife and habitats. In the Australian section natural habitats. Following the principle of “humane of this site, if you have an interest in registering your stewardship”, private land owners manage their prop- property with the WLT, you can download a PDF ap- erty to ensure a safe and healthy environment for all plication form that you can send directly to us in Syd- inhabitants of their land. Member properties protect a ney. range of rare and endangered flora and fauna and several owners are also active vegetation and wildlife rehabilitators, caring for species ranging from wom- There are no legal obligations or costs implied in join- bats through to bats. ing the WLT, which is entirely voluntary, and would not conflict (but complement) any existing or future agreements you might enter into to protect your land. The program originally began as part of the Humane We very much hope that this new initiative will be at- Society of the United States in 1993 and now covers tractive to you, enabling you to let the wider-world eight countries, protecting more than 1.8 million acres know what good conservation work you are undertak- worldwide. WLT Australia encourages people with ing for wildlife and habitats in Australia. properties of all shapes and sizes to join and current sanctuaries encompass habitats from farmland to rainforest and range from around six to six hundred If you would like to talk about this invitation directly, acres. We are keen for your “bit of bush” to become please call Sara Russell on 1800 333 737 or email part of the international network of sanctuaries. him at [email protected]

Wildcare Australia, Inc. Page 4 Email: [email protected]

PROMOTIONAL PAMPHLETS The office has promotional pamphlets available free to members for distribution to the public. Also available for purchase are Wildcare business cards ($5 for a bundle of 50) and fridge magnets

(20c each).

WILDCARE CLOTHING

Orders for the new Wildcare t-shirts, jackets, vests, and hats can be placed using the order Please note that on the Wildcare website form available from the Wildcare website and ei- (www.wildcare.org.au), under “Carer Resources> ther emailing it to [email protected] or by fax- Wildcare Shop for members”, you are able to ac- ing it to (07) 3318 7678. cess and download the following information: the Shop Price List/Order Form, Payment Form, as Due to the complicated logo, we need a minimum well as information sheets about books, food sup- of 10 orders before we can have them produced plements and miscellaneous items we currently by the embroiderer. stock in the shop. Festive Animal Christmas decorations are also available. NEW ITEM - NAME BADGES! You are able to place your orders 24 hours a day, Name badges can be made for Wildcare Members 7 days a week by emailing the shop at and Carers. A sample badge is shown below, the [email protected] or by faxing your order actual badge will have rounded corners. through to (07) 3318 7678.

NEW BOOKS AVAILABLE FROM THE SHOP Medicine of Australian Mammals $195.00 Mountain to Mangroves (Revised edition) $50.00

FESTIVE ANIMAL X’MAS DECORATIONS Festive animal Christmas decorations and servi- They will be available at a cost of $10 each ette rings are now available in the shop. They are (including postage) and orders can be emailed $6 each, $20 for a set of 4 (of one animal) or you through to [email protected] or fax (07) 3318 can have a mixed animal set of 4 for $24; the ser- viette rings are $7 each or $35 for a set of 6. 7678. Tracy Paroz

CURRUMBIN Shop The Currumbin shop is currently open from 8am to 4pm Tuesday through Friday.

BRISBANE Shop Please contact Renay Robb on 0408 748 082 to arrange a suitable time to purchase your items.

SUNSHINE COAST Shop Please contact Rachel Lyons on 0417 078 432 to arrange a suitable time to purchase your items.

Wildcare Australia, Inc. Page 5

derstand this relationship so that shops in August presented by we can better prepare these little the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital puppies for life out in the wild. (CWH) staff. Thank you so much As I was writing this report, I to Mimi Dona for her tireless ef- was watching the interaction of forts in pulling these workshops our newest bub born less than a together and to Dr. Michael day ago and he was flapping his Pyne, Dr. Erina Young, Natasha wings while mum held him in the and the other enthusiastic CWH sunshine….an important mes- staff members for sharing their sage here for foster mums. time and invaluable knowledge These little guys need lots of with us. We had a very good sunshine and to be able to flap, turn out and we all learned so not wrapped up tightly like cute much from the numerous “hands little spring rolls. on” activities. During the workshops, we were also fortunate to BATS Trish Wimberley have been able to sign up many From now through February is new bird carers for our new bird network. Thanks to all of you for our baby bat season. These last BIRDS - Brisbane few months have seen a few your eagerness to participate. If Baby bird season has started late babies from last season – there are any more bird carers slowly for us but I am sure it will those that were not doing so out there who have not hooked get busier when the storm sea- well over the winter months. into our network yet, please do son hits. The new bird network not hesitate to contact us….we system has been very helpful in would love to hear from you. Mother bats usually time their placing birds around the Bris-

births to coincide with the peak- bane region. While compiling the flowering season so there is list of Brisbane bird carers, I enough food for their babies, but managed to recruit a few mem- Mother Nature cannot seem to bers into being transporters. make up her mind and our sea- Thank you to everyone who has sons have been a little erratic offered to help! lately. This is having an effect on our pregnant mums and we Also, I am starting a collection of have had an unusually high cages of various sizes that have number being caught on barbed Last year, 137 orphan birds been donated to Wildcare by wire. Of those mums we were came into care on the Gold some generous people in this able to save and keep from Coast with almost 100 of them region. So if anyone needs a aborting, they are now giving arriving between October and cage, please contact me. birth and we have six new bubs, January…and we had fewer all healthy and happily feeding than 40 bird carers! In the last off their mums. Only one little Heather Frankcom month, Dianna and I have al- Black boy, Loganberry, had to ready placed numerous orphans be fostered by humans. BIRDS - Gold Coast and injured adults including What an exciting time it has Blue-faced Honeyeaters, friar- This next month will bring joy been for us as we gear up for birds, kingfishers, lorikeets, par- and sadness; joy of the privilege this year’s busy “Baby Bird Sea- rots, pigeons, a couple of Wel- of looking after these little flying son”! As the new Gold Coast come Swallows, over a dozen puppies, sadness that they won’t Bird Co-coordinators, we pardalotes and, of course, a few have their real bat mum to care (Dianna and Renee) have been Noisy Miners and Magpie-larks. for and teach them what a little preparing for a very busy and bat needs to learn to survive. productive spring. This year, in an effort to optimise our resources, we have created As foster mums, we need to un- We had two outstanding work- the Gold Coast Bird Network. By

Wildcare Australia, Inc. Page 6 collecting specific details about ble; these birds are very lull in the birth of babies during each bird carer (such as spe- territorial and must be re- the winter months to refurbish cies of interest, bird capacity, leased exactly where they your cages and aviaries. Ba- level of care and availability to were found. bies have started to come in… help transport), we hope to in- 2. Phone me to report a carni- and I can't help but think that crease communication among vore you have taken into there must be some way to edu- Wildcare’s Gold Coast bird car- care. This is imperative to cate the public about how to ers and lessen the stress asso- the successful release of identify birds! I have had two ciated with the upcoming influx the bird! juvenile butcherbirds come in of orphaned and injured birds. identified as adult magpies, two Thank you to Nicole, Melanie pardalotes as peewees and the Wading through Ducks and and Dianna who phoned our list goes on. And of course Plovers (by Christine Wilson): I network of carers and helped to there’s the usual, "I have a am excited to welcome three collect all of this information. hawk", which turns out to be a new duck carers to our team. baby brush-turkey. We held a training session at To help with placement of birds Dianna’s house which was a this year, we also asked for vol- great way to provide one-on- Some of the birds are hatching unteers to serve as species- one training about duckling re- out very early for this area of specific placement coordinators habilitation details. We dis- the coast. We normally don't get (as they say, many hands make cussed how to set up a duckling brush-turkeys, magpies or light work!). We have been ex- hot box and feeding tips, as well butcherbirds in any great num- tremely fortunate to have the as stages of development - in- bers until the end of September, following three carers step up to formation that is already being but this year seems to be an this challenge; Christine Wilson put to use by at least one of our exception. Both of the juvenile (Ducks/Plovers), Liz Meffan new duck carers! At this time of butcherbirds that came in were (Carnivores) and Jim McNeill year, rescuers should be aware infected quite badly with throat (Tawnies). We would love to of the problems involved with worm, so be on the alert for this have more help, so if you are ducklings in swimming pools. and always check for it when interested and have some ex- Please remember these three they come in. This could be be- perience rehabilitating lorikeets very important points: cause of the rain we have had. or pigeons and have recently 1. Do not scare off the parent We do seem to see more of this attended a bird workshop, ducks. problem during the wetter please contact Renée or 2. Turn off the pool pump so months. Dianna. the ducklings do not get sucked down the filter/ Make sure your supplies are up Carnivore Country (by Liz Mef- drain. to date, be sure to have your fan): There are plenty of baby 3. Provide a “ramp” out of the preferred heating method set magpies about, so if you are pool, such as a piece of up, and await the onslaught. lucky enough to rescue one wood, so that the parent We have some new carers who please call me so we can place ducks can usher the duck- attended the last workshop, and as many together as possible. lings out. I am looking forward to putting This way they will have a much them to work. better success rate upon release. Currumbin Wildlife Hospi- Please do not hesitate to con- tal has been calling on a regular tact Renée or Dianna, or any of Ailsa Watson basis now - with sick and/or in- the placement coordinators when you pick up a new bird, if jured kookaburras, currawongs, ECHIDNAS crows and magpies - so we you have questions about rehabilitating birds or if you simply Our busy echidna trauma sea- could use more help. When res- son has started. In only ten cuing or picking up any of these want to share your bird rehab stories! days last month, I had four birds from veterinary clinics, the echidnas in care – all of which

two most important things to do unfortunately were euthanased are: Renee, Dianna, as their injuries were far too ex- 1. Find out exactly where the Christine, Liz & Jim tensive to be treated. bird has come from. Be specific – with a street ad- BIRDS – Sunshine Coast Our first “puggle” for the season dress and number, if possi- Hopefully you have all spent the has come into care – a tiny 98

Wildcare Australia, Inc. Page 7 gram puggle. She is a little too We still need new carers and a large number, more early but she has joined the encourage any one interested in than thirty, possums, baby birds and baby flying foxes caring for macropods to notify not only brushtails, that seem to have forgotten the the Wildcare office of your inter- but also gliders (five in seasons this year! est or call Karen Scott, Paula one day) come into care as a Rowlands or myself. direct result of habitat de- Please be aware that puggles struction. Many have been will be around from now until Roy Webster orphans, whose mothers have deserted the early 2009 so any road kill nesting hollow when echidnas should be checked for POSSUMS - Brisbane pouch young. the machinery ap- Orphaned possums are starting proached, or whose

to increase in numbers now that mothers have been killed or Karen Scott we are entering the busy sea- severely injured when the son. I'm really keen to hear from trees fell or the chain saw MACROPODS existing north Brisbane carers, sliced. Some animals that Unfortunately, our rescuers have as well as new carers, regarding have sustained injuries have been busy over the last few availability. recovered; others have had to months; it seems to get worse be euthanased. every year. Thankfully, the num- I regularly get calls about ber of joeys coming into care possums needing care, from The survival rate of relocated has been down a little this year. pinkies through to mature adults, animals is questionable as they so please help me to help the may be entering the territory of possums to be placed promptly. well-established animals that will You can contact me by: Mobile: drive the new arrivals away. 0423 172 554; or email: There may be limited resources [email protected] - food and shelter – which means that an area may not Caroline Oertel support an influx of new animals, bearing in mind also that the quality of the food resources We are short of carers at the POSSUMS - Gold Coast in an area will govern the size of moment. With people on holi- No telephones calls, no emails, the territory that an animal will days or taking a break from car- no credit cards, no debts …life need to survive. ing, it has been difficult at times in the trees sounds a breeze. to find anyone to take joeys. I Some common fallacies about The past three months have have had to resort to asking car- native animals are: if your seen a number of brushtail pos- ers outside of Wildcare to assist house/tree hollow/area is demol- sums hit by cars and an increas- us with joeys, and I thank them ished you just “move on”, if you ing number attacked by dogs. for helping us out. A big thank are hit by a car, you stand up, There have been a number of you also goes to our trauma res- brush yourself down and run off sugar, squirrel and feathertail cuers for doing a very diffi- (a Queensland politician!), if you gliders orphaned as a result of cult job - attending road trau- are lying on the ground with two cat attack, and barbed wire has mas. They do this day and night, broken legs, have no fears you caused a couple of gliders to sometimes under extremely diffi- are bound to be up and running find themselves in care with very cult circumstances. in a day or two. It is difficult to nasty injuries. The gliders can- understand how some members not be released unless the glid- Most people don’t realize that for of the human race can see pain ing membrane has completely every joey that comes in, we and suffering and the need for repaired without any scar tissue, lose a mother. assistance in one animal, Homo as they must have full extension sapiens, but not in another, for of the membrane as well as a example Trichosurus vulpecula, fully functioning tail to allow the brushtail possum. them to navigate and control a glide. Habitat loss continues apace on the Gold Coast and over the There have been fewer brushtail past few months there has been

Wildcare Australia, Inc. Page 8 possums with dermatitis re- people in our unique wildlife and ity of rescues so far have been cently but there have been a how best to maintain the diver- for domestic animal attacks and couple with tick paralysis, which sity of plants and animals that road trauma, with snakes in par- is unusual, as with the odd ex- we are so lucky to have in this ticular being the main victims. ception they can usually carry a area of south-east Queensland. few ticks without any apparent ill Only two other regions in Aus- Snakes also seem to love car effects. tralia can boast to have more engines but they’re not the only than we have here: in far north ones, according to a report Queensland and in south-west Once again I would remind pos- about “Slick”, a grease-covered Western Australia. sum carers to notify their pos- lace monitor from Yatala!

sum coordinators of their status. If you have animals please let A very special thank you to We would like to remind rescu- us know, and if you haven’t but Trish Wimberley for coordinat- ers that this is reptile breeding would like to rehabilitate, a ing the possums and for her on- season, and it is vital that all phone call or email will ensure going support, her energy and injured reptiles are sexed cor- you are on the waiting list. Un- passion and to the ever-willing rectly. If you suspect any res- fortunately for the possums in and wonderful possum carers cued reptile is gravid / pregnant, our area, your wait may not be without whose love and commit- contact your coordinator imme- too long as the pressure of ment so many of these animals diately, because these animals population and associated hu- would die. require specialist care. man actions, speeding cars, un-

restrained cats and dogs, Eleanor Hanger barbed wire, loss of habitat We still need more rescuers and

mean the possums are in a very carers, so please contact me or tenuous position. REPTILES Jai if you are interested. Reptile season began right on cue this year, with the first week Also remember that education of spring being our busiest in Kristie Remmert of the public is the key to help- months. It is great to see so ing our native animals and the many lizards and snakes out ecosystems on which they de- and about - basking and now pend for survival. So use every looking for a mate. The major- available opportunity to interest

RESCUED!

Rescued! is a collection of 42 true stories about the work of wildlife rehabilitators (including those of Wildcare Australia, Currumbin Wildlife Hospital and Australian Wildlife Hospital). Colour illustrations complement the amazing stories contributed by wildlife rehabilitators, veterinarians and veterinary nurses.

This is possibly the first book of its kind, describing and bringing attention to the unsung heroes of wild animal care – the wide range of wildlife rehabilitators through- out Australia and beyond who dedicate their lives to caring for wild animals who become orphaned, injured or sick.

Rescued! will be available in early December and will make a great gift so order now by emailing [email protected] or faxing the Wildcare Australia office (07) 5534 2617.

Wildcare Australia, Inc. Page 9

Education Highlights

Toads. Even a few organiza- GECKO tional and administrative topics Free Guest Speaker were presented including sourc- ing grant money, building and On the 4th Wednesday of every setting up a wildlife clinic and, month on topical environ- mental issues for the technology geek in all of us, databases and web-based software for managing an emergency wildlife phone service and carer records. Full papers on all NATIONAL WILDLIFE presentations should be avail- REHABILITATION able soon on the NWRC web- CONFERENCE 2008 site, www.nwrc.com.au.

th The 6 National Wildlife Reha- Intermissions between the pres- Wildcare Australia would like to bilitation Conference (NWRC) entations were opportune mo- was held 22 - 26 July at the ments to network or simply pe- thank GECKO, Elanora Secon- Convention Centre in Canberra ruse the numerous educational, dary School and Palm Beach / this year. The major sponsor decorative and fun items offered Currumbin Secondary School and host was the RSPCA (ACT) for sale among the various for collecting towels, blankets Inc. The primary aim of these groups’ booths. and other warm woollies for our conferences is to disseminate members during the GECKO the latest scientific and practical information about rescue, reha- Following the plenary sessions, “Caring for Critters” material bilitation and release of Austra- additional educational programs collection. lian native fauna. They provide a were held which offered atten- forum for learning and network- dees the opportunity to travel to ing. Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve to observe the endangered Cor- roboree Frog Breeding Pro- Monday night’s welcome drinks gramme, to learn the basics of and nibbles were followed by performing a necropsy or to at- three days of educational and tend disaster relief training. entertaining presentations. Over 30 presentations were given which not only covered wildlife Aside from the 3-degree evening treatment topics such as emer- temperatures, it was a very en- gency care, disaster relief, pain joyable conference with plenty management, treatment of for everyone. Each year, Wild- mange in wombats, fluoroqui- care Australia covers the confer- nolone drug metabolism in koa- ence registration fees for three las, physiotherapy and treatment or four active members who myths but also provided results want to attend; this benefit is of conservation research includ- targeted towards members who ing a mark-recapture study of are in a position to interact and Brown Snakes, effects of climate share information gained from change on the Mountain Pygmy the conference with as many Wildcare members as possible. Possum, the success of the cap- tive breeding program of the So if you think you may be inter- Corroboree Frogs, genetic con- ested in attending, now is the siderations of the release of re- time to get involved! habilitated wildlife as well as an update on the impact of Cane Renée Rivard

Wildcare Australia, Inc. Page 10 WORKSHOP REGISTRATIONS A few days before the scheduled workshop date, you will receive a final confirmation email from the Education Coordinator confirming details of the We seem to have experienced some major workshop including the start and expected finish- “glitches” in our registration process in the past ing times, what to bring and confirmation of the few months - thanks to some unexpected IT and venue address and directions. Those of you with- email problems. We apologise to those who have out access to email will receive this information via been affected. We have now found the problems telephone. and have rectified them.

If you do not receive the above confirmation, then For future reference, we advise that the workshop you are NOT registered for the workshop. registration process is as follows: Please ensure that you check your Spam Folder or Junk Mail folder to ensure that our confirmation The preferred method of registration is by email to emails do not get caught up in your mail filter. [email protected]. Upon receipt of the email, you will be sent a confirmation email As we approach Christmas, you will notice that (generally with 24-48 hours) that you are regis- our education programs will slow down. From past tered for the workshop. It is best to register for experience, workshops scheduled in December workshops at least 4 days prior to the scheduled and January are generally poorly attended and, date to allow the volunteer trainers sufficient time with the busy Spring season, our volunteer train- to ensure that adequate quantities of training ma- ers usually take the opportunity to update training terials are ready. When emailing your registration, materials and to deal with the influx of animals please also include your land-line telephone num- coming into care. A new calendar for 2009 will be ber as well as your mobile telephone number as published towards the end of this year. an emergency contact.

If you have any questions regarding our education If you do not have access to email, you can tele- programs, please do not hesitate to contact me phone the Wildcare Office during business hours either by email at [email protected] or 8am - 4pm, Tuesday to Friday and our office vol- 0400 165462. unteers will take your details and will email them to me for registration. Again, please be sure to Karen Scott give your mobile telephone number as a contact. Education Coordinator

Upcoming Wildcare Training Workshops October - December 2008 Specific locations to be determined based on number of attendees registered.

SUNSHINE COAST th 18 October Echidnas & Small Mammals th 25 October Wildlife Habitat and Plant Identification

GOLD COAST th 18 October Basic Birds th 15 November Caring for Orphaned Mammals th 7 December ORIENTATION

BRISBANE AREA nd 2 November ORIENTATION th 9 November Basic Possums th 6 December First Aid for Native Wildlife

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a wonderful time and went away would be able to fulfil this role. Wildcare Management with lots of valuable information. Committee Meeting Summary We hope that the three positions July/August/Sept 2008 Education/Workshops - Wildcare will be filled by members from different regions including one

• Queensland Wildlife Rehabilita- from the Gold Coast, one from Business/Corporation tion Council (QWRC) has en- the Brisbane/Ipswich region and • Change of name from “The Aus- dorsed the Orientation training one from the Sunshine Coast/ tralian Koala Hospital Associa- module for a 3-year period. Gympie region. A brief outline of tion, Inc.” to “Wildcare Australia, what is required of a Committee Inc.” The proposal was accepted Members/Memberships Member follows: at the AGM and the formal appli- • In July, we had 14 new mem- cation was lodged. Formal notifi- bers and 57 renewals (including 1. Be able to attend monthly cation of approval from the Of- 1 corporate) and in August we Committee Meetings (or at fice of Fair Trading was received welcomed 21 new members and least every second meeting). on the 5 September 2008. The 22 renewals. Meetings will be scheduled Management Committee is now at various locations including in the process of undertaking the Record Keeper’s Report the southern Sunshine relevant administrative proc- Coast region. esses to reflect the name • The assistant record keepers have slightly revised their roles; 2. Be in a position to dissemi- change. nate information to Wildcare • Brisbane City Council Environ- all CARER records are to now be sent to Kiersten Jones (both members by way of attend- mental Grants Program 2008 / ing workshops or other 2009 round 1 application closed Excel as well as hand-written forms) and all PHONE records member related activities. on 9 September 2008 with four 3. Be able to contribute to the grant applications submitted by should continue to be sent to Amy Whitham. running of the organization members of Wildcare. Round 2 including administration and • A data inquiry register has been applications will close on the 23 public relation activities and created to track all data requests February 2009. Any members roles. wishing to apply for this grant we receive and dates of re-

please email sponses. [email protected] for a This is an excellent way for more members to become involved in copy of the application form and Species Coordinators the running of the organization guidelines. Applications need to • We welcome Renée Rivard and be submitted to the Manage- and the Management Committee Dianna Smith as the new Gold hopes that members will avail ment Committee two weeks prior Coast Bird Coordinators. to the closing date, for checking themselves of the opportunity. and submission by Wildcare. Vacant Positions • Benefits of redesigning the Wild- The Management Committee will care website were discussed. A • The Wildcare Management make the appointments to the web designer is being sought. Committee recently made a de- Committee based on the infor- cision to expand the manage- mation provided by the appli- Community Awareness ment committee by offering cants. In future years, it is hoped three “Committee Member” posi- that these positions will be voted • Wildcare participated in the tions. We believe that this will on by all Wildcare members at Mudgeeraba Show and the Wild- allow more people to become the Annual General Meeting. life Information Day (Esk) but directly involved in the running of was unable to attend the Wildlife the organization. Expo (Beaudesert) and the Nominations must be received by th School Expo (Waterford West If you wish to nominate a person the 30 November 2008 so that State School) due to an insuffi- (or yourself) to take up a position a decision can be made at the cient number of volunteers to as a Committee Member on the next Management Committee assist. Management Committee, please meeting. either email Education/Workshops - External [email protected] or • National Wildlife Rehabilitation write to Wildcare Australia Inc. at Conference 2008: A successful PO Box 2379, Nerang Mail Cen- trade table was held at this con- tre QLD 4211 with a brief de- ference. Members attending had scription of why you feel you

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Things move slowly in Africa, but patience is rewarded. A movement near the skyline and some very large grey shapes heralded the arrival of a herd of elephants— mothers with young of varying move. The hyena kept coming, ages. They moved around the pool maintaining an even pace when until they reached the preferred suddenly it gathered speed and drinking spot and we watched with raced towards the Damara dik– AN AFRICAN NIGHT fascination the antics of the babies dik, which turned and fled into the and the interactions of the group. A night. The hyena didn’t follow but As the sun set in a blaze of red and lone elephant arrived some time turned to the water to drink. The gold over the Namibian bush and later and approached and, it ap- Damara dik-dik returned about an the colours of day were replaced peared, greeted each member of hour later and had the pool to itself. with the shades of night, the ani- the herd in turn. When the decision was made to leave, one baby must mals approached the waterhole to The next to have ignored the call as it was bus- slake their thirst before disappear- arrive were ily scratching its tummy on a rock ing into the darkness. a stately and didn’t move off with the herd, trio, tall so an adult came back and gave it and proud First came the zebras. They a gentle nudge whereupon it has- - giraffes. seemed to gather about a hundred tened after them. metres from the water’s edge be- They were

fore approaching the pool as a certainly group and as they were drinking The next animal to arrive ap- not designed for drinking from wa- another herd gathered and waited proached the pool with great cau- terholes. To reach the water gi- in the wings, like actors awaiting tion. It crouched low while drinking raffes have to spread their legs a their cue, until the first group had and between each mouthful looked considerable distance apart, then moved off and then they too came nervously from side to side. This some animals bend their knees to the waterhole to drink. Their re- was a leopard and another first for while others hold them straight. It flections in the dark pool were us. Once satisfied it hurried away all seems such an effort. breathtaking. and it was sometime before any- thing else came to drink. This is Etosha National Park during the dry season. The small bush On our game drives, we had seen pools have dried up and the ani- many members of the antelope mals tend to congregate near the family - roan, kudu, impala, springs which border the Etosha springbok, gemsbok…..but on this Pan—a gigantic shallow depres- evening a delicate creature, a sion which fills to about a metre Damara dik-dik, appeared out of deep with water after an exception- the darkness. It approached the ally rainy period. In earlier times, water and withdrew. It approached the animals migrated between Eto- again and spent some time stand- sha and Kaokoland at this time of ing about twenty metres from the year but now due to fencing they As the zebras moved on, a large are forced to stay within the park. shape emerged from the darkness and there soon followed another. Eleanor Hanger Slowly and silently they approached and half circled the pool before dipping their heads to drink. Imagine our excitement as these were white rhinoceros and this was water totally exposed to predators, our first sighting of them. The rhi- but ever watchful and alert. It was nos moved on and we enjoyed the quite difficult to see, but finally I night sky and a falling star which made out the shape of an hyena burnt out in a rather spectacular approaching from the opposite di- way. rection. What would happen, I won- dered? The Damara dik–dik didn’t

Wildcare Australia, Inc. Page 13 Baby Birds HAVE YOU FOUND most raptors. These birds usually A BABY BIRD?! nest in trees or off the ground. nest. The parents will continue to Spring has sprung and so have the Next, determine if the baby bird is care for their baby from the new baby birds! suitable to be re-nested. Obviously, nest and, contrary to popular belief, if the parents are known to be dead they will not reject a baby because then the baby will need to be taken it has been handled by a human. Spring is always a very busy time into care by a trained wildlife reha- for wildlife rescuers, rehabilitators, bilitator. Also, be aware that a sick Craft a makeshift nest from a veterinary clinics and wildlife hospi- or injured bird should not be re- bucket (40-50cm deep): drill several tals. During this time of year, baby nested; instead the baby should be holes in the bottom to provide birds begin to fledge and venture placed in a box or basket, kept drainage in case of rain, place a away from their nests. Unfortu- warm, in a dark and quiet environ- layer of leaves and grass in the nately, most will find their way into ment and taken to a vet for exami- veterinary clinics after being bottom and place a stick (about “rescued” by well-meaning mem- 60cm long) in the bucket and se- bers of the public. However, not all cure it into one of the drainage of these baby birds on the ground holes. Place the nestling in its new require rescuing! Here’s what to do home and hang the bucket in a when a baby bird is found or leafy tree or tall bush, well- brought into your clinic. protected from direct sun or predators and as close as possible to where the baby was found initially. It is extremely important to make Observe the makeshift nest from a every attempt possible to “re-nest” distance to ensure the parents re- or reunite a healthy, uninjured baby nation. Lastly, naked or near-naked turn to feed it. If the parents do not bird with its parents. altricial hatchlings do not have suffi- return within a couple of hours or by cient down or feathers for thermo- dusk, then retrieve the baby and First you need to correctly identify regulation and must be brooded by contact a wildlife rehabilitator so the bird. In general, there are two the parents. If the chick cannot be that it can be given proper care. returned to the original nest, then it types of birds – precocial and altricial. Precocial birds are born cov- will need to be raised by a trained A precocial baby does not need to ered in down with their eyes open wildlife rehabilitator. be placed in a and can feed themselves soon after nest. If it ap- hatching; they include birds like Do not kidnap healthy fledglings. pears to be in ducklings, plovers, brush turkeys, The fledgling stage of development danger and the and swamphens. These birds usu- is an important time for baby birds parents are still ally nest on the ground. Altricial as this is when they learn survival around, place birds are completely dependent on and feeding skills under the watch- it under the their parents for warmth and food. ful eye of their nearby parents. cover of dense They are born completely or nearly Fledglings have a significant num- bush in a naked with their eyes closed and ber of adult-looking feathers; they nearby location must be nursed until they are ma- begin to hop and flutter around their and observe to ture enough to leave the nest. surroundings and frequently fall to ensure the par- These include the majority of birds the ground. These babies do not ents rejoin it. such as honeyeaters, insectivores, need to be “rescued” unless they

parrots, pigeons, carnivores and appear to be in danger at which point they should simply be picked After all, there is no substitution for up and placed on a nearby branch. the care of mum and dad!

Healthy, uninjured altricial baby A poster is provided on the next page and can be printed out as a reference. nestlings with considerable down or feathers whose parents are nearby are suitable to be re-nested and Renée Rivard & should be placed in a makeshift Mimi Dona

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husband got home from work about a glass of champagne!” Oh yeah! that time so I told him my plan and we set to work building the best And then we waited. We sipped galah townhouse on the Gold and we waited and sipped some Coast. But in order to do so, out more. No galahs. Maybe they’ll be came, “Nest boxes for Wildlife” by back tomorrow. Let’s hope the pos- Alan and Stacey Franks off the sums don’t get into it tonight. It’ll be bookshelf. fine.

Our purpose-built galah nest box Then…did you hear that? Woohoo was only hours away from comple- A VIEW OF GALAHS the galahs came back and flew tion. I was very excited. Of course straight back to the palm tree. We my concerns crept in about half froze, afraid we’d scare them off. Saturday started like any day really way through building the box… Peering over our glass of bubbles with me and my sons eventually thoughts like, “I hope they don’t we watched them looking at the getting outside in the yard to play. bugger off before this is finished box, curiously. They seemed com- With the usual chores to get and…what if the possums like it pletely unaware that there had through I got started, whistling hello better??? Not much we could do been an addition to the tree, but to my cockatiels as I did. I then about that now. Continue according they were interested. Very inter- happened to hear a bird call that I to plan. ested. Another sip…and then they didn’t hear that often…only when were sitting on top of the box. That the neighbouring acacias were ripe. For many years, it took us a whole was the first time that we could see My four year old heard it too and weekend to build a nest box, so we the difference…one had red eyes, immediately told me he could see were very proud that our developed the other had brown. We decided the galahs. It was definitely worth a skills made it possible for us to do it they were a breeding couple and pause to look up and see these in an afternoon - even with two thought that our day’s work was beautiful birds so close. Very close small kids ‘helping’. The box was hopefully going to pay off. The male I remember thinking; they usually finished and it was a beauty! All checked out the box first with some stay up quite high in the trees. We the requirements had been met, knocking on the side, some prac- watched for a bit and then contin- internal measurements…correct, tice flights to the entrance, a peek- ued on with our activities. depth of chamber from bottom of a-boo inside, then a call to his mate entrance hole…..correct, entrance to say “Hey check this out, look A couple of hours later I noticed the diameter…..perfect, height above what I found”. galahs again, just the two of them ground….5-7 meters….argh!!! How and they were sitting on top of our were we going to get it up that high Before the sun had set that night, neighbours air conditioning unit on a palm tree? we sat and proudly watched this attached high up under the eaves. gorgeous pair of galahs take up One of the galahs was holding onto “Honey, are you feeling adventur- residency. Over the following days the side of the unit and seemed to ous?” Good. I’ll get the ladder. we were amazed to watch the male be tapping and exploring it. Again I tear off bits of palm and local trees didn’t think much of it, other than it to line his new home…and drop the being behaviour I had not noticed Well, the box (surprisingly) weighed bits that didn’t size up. We say “hi” before. Later that morning I noticed as much as a small kid and with to our new neighbours every day two galahs sitting at the top of a minimal handles. It was truly an and, of course, I do give them a palm tree that overhung our carport interesting sight to see my husband look when I’m scraping off their and this time one of the galahs was perched at the top of a 4-meter lad- poop from the kids play area. But ripping at the soft base of the palm der, in his thongs with a drill hang- that’s okay, I’m sure they appreci- branches pulling out the husk mate- ing from around his neck, one arm ate their new home. rial, making what looked like the hugging the tree, the other holding start of a hole. a heavy box …with a whole heap of hope etched across his face. Now our fingers are crossed that one day we will be able to see their Then it hit me….der Kel…they’re offspring take flight from the house looking for a nesting site! They It took a few adjustments but fortu- that we built. couldn’t have made it any more nately nothing fell and there it was, obvious to me! “Well”, I said as I finally attached to the tree at the looked up at them, “you’ve come to desired height. “Yeah” we thought, Kelly Clark the right place”. Fortunately, my “we rock….time to pack up and get

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everyone’s amazement, he was a low. They had fallen down between her, and she was a mum carrying a the grates." So Petersen took ac- puggle tucked into the fold of mus- tion. He phoned police Sergeant cle on her tummy!! As the vet of 12 Randy Kellens, who arrived at the years had only ever seen this once scene and, in turn, got in touch with before I thought this was a very two more constables. "When they special event. I got to help monitor came down, the duck ran around her heartbeat and everything! Mum them as well, quacking. Then she had a broken leg so had to go to lay down on the grate," Petersen Australia Zoo the next day for sur- said. gery. Unfortunately mum echidna rejected her baby, but bub was suc- While Kellens looked over into the TO THE RESCUE……!! cessfully hand raised and both A first rescue story grate, the duck sat on the curb and ended up being okay. So if you watched. Then the two constables, ever get a call to rescue an John Schilling and Allison Hill, mar- One of my very first rescues contin- echidna, take a plastic box and pre- shalled a tow truck that lifted the ues to be the most memorable wild- pare to be amazed!! grate out of position, allowing the life experience for me. I got a call eight ducklings to be rescued one on a Sunday night about 8pm as I Christine Wilson by one with a vegetable strainer. was putting on dinner for my in- "While we were doing this, the laws. An echidna had been hit by a mother duck just lay there and car! Well, what do you take on an MOTHER DUCK’S 'BIRD BRAIN' SAVES DUCKLINGS watched," Petersen says. Once the echidna rescue?? I grabbed my ducklings were safe, however, she husband, his big thick leather set about marching them down to gloves, and a box and off we went. Don't mention "bird brains" to Ray False Creek, where they jumped The MOP (that’s Member of the Petersen, because after what hap- into the water. Kellens followed Public for all you new readers) was pened this week, he won't hear a them to make sure they were all great and had stopped his 4-wheel word of it. Petersen, a community right, but elected to remain on drive on the road to protect the police officer for Granville Down- shore. echidna which was curled up in a town South, was walking in the tight ball and not going anywhere. 1500-block Granville Street On with the gloves, scooped him Wednesday morning when a duck into the box, which I sat on my lap came up and grabbed him by the and took off for home. Half-way pant leg. Then it started waddling there I got this really weird wet feel- around him and quacking. ing on my leg (I was wearing shorts). It took a while to register, "I thought it was a bit goofy, so I but I suddenly realised that my shoved it away," Petersen said in echidna was burrowing through the an interview. But the duck, a fe- cardboard box and onto my lap!! male, wasn't about to give up that easily. Making sure she still had We got home just in time to make Petersen's eye, she waddled up the the transfer into a plastic box and I road about 20 metres and lay jumped in the other car and headed on a storm sewer grate. Petersen for Narrowleaf. Trish had two vets watched and thought nothing of it. staying with her that night so ex- "But when I started walking again, perts were on hand to assess our she did the same thing. She ran echidna’s injuries. This is not an around and grabbed me again." easy thing to do, as you can imag- It became obvious to him then that The experience has changed Peter- ine. Echidnas have this very well- something was up. sen's mind about ducks. He thinks developed defence mechanism they're a lot smarter than he used where all you get to see is a ball of to. And while he never ate duck spikes. The decision was made to So when she waddled off to the sewer grate a second time, Peter- before, he says he wouldn't dream anesthetise the animal, so a proper of it now. examination could be made. Once sen decided to follow. "I went up to

echidna was asleep, we could roll where the duck was lying and saw him over and have a good look. To eight little babies in the water be- Nicholas Read, Vancouver Sun

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Hi again everyone! Hope you all enjoyed the school holidays. I was lucky enough to have 5 weeks off school during term to visit my family in Holland top of the water. I think they do this and also go on a two-week cruise to scare away predators. It makes a on the Queen Victoria through very big thumping loud noise, that’s for the Mediterranean. We visited all sure. sorts of ancient ruins and beautiful cities. The ship is really huge Did you know that whales were once and there is everything you can land animals? If you took an x- imagine on board. I especially ray of a whale, you would see loved the Kids Zone where there that it has bones just like we were 33 Playstation 3s and a Wii. humans do! The whale’s fin contains an elbow which is fused Well, I can’t say I saw much wild- together now because it’s not life on my travels to Europe, but needed anymore, and it has 5 I did see some amazing aquatic fingers just like us. We also wildlife yesterday when I went spotted dolphins along the way, and sometimes a green sea turtle. So, whale watching on the Eclipse as you can see, I’ve been spending a lot of time on the water. which leaves from Marina Mirage at Southport. Many of our wildlife species depend on water for survival. They live in all sorts of watery environments and sometimes spend large amounts At first it was pretty quiet, then of time at sea looking for food. One of my favourite birds is the we saw a mother and calf swim- darter. They are a diving bird, also known as a shag or a snake-bird. I ming around but they weren’t think this is because their neck is so long that it almost looks like a very close. About 200 metres snake. They grow to about 95cm in length. They have grey-brown to from the boat. Then, when we black feathers and a thin neck. They have a fine beak, perfect for were just about to go back to grabbing fish under water, and they have webbed feet. Their call is a shore, we spotted them again and harsh, staccato cackle or clicking. this time they put on a really great show for us. The mother Darters live in freshwater and marine wetlands, rivers, lagoons, lakes whale was teaching the baby and dams, and are widespread in the Greater Brisbane Region, and whale how to behave like a whale. they’re present all year round. The cormorant is a It was teaching it how to jump similar species. out of the water, which is called breeching. It was also teaching it how to slap its tail fin on the Please send your photos and stories to me by email at [email protected]. I will send you a Chupa Chup as a “thank you”! Bye from P.J.

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1H 3C

5 5J

This edition’s crossword features some water-based birds, and birds who seek their prey in marine environments, as well as a couple of large water-based mammals.

DOWN 1. White-faced H - - - - 2. Intermediate E- - - t 3. Baby whale. 4. Caspian T - - - 5. Comb-crested J - - - - -

ACROSS 1. Popular whale.

2. White-Bellied Sea E - - - - 3. A diving bird. Eel 5. Moorhen;

4. Dusky Moor - - - 4. Darter; 3. Eagle; 2. Humpback; 1. ACROSS:

Tern 5. Jacana Jacana 5. Tern 5. Snake-like water creature. 4. Calf 3. Egret 2. Heron 1. DOWN: Answers:

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This bird frequents rivers, swamps and lakes as in often seen drying its wings or immersed in the water with only its head and part of its neck showing. It is distinguished from the cor- morants by its long, pointed bill and long, Distinctive black bill . Feeds in shallow snake-like neck. waters, both fresh and saline, on fish, crustaceans and aquatic insects, using a sweeping movement from side to side.

It is found in terrestrial wetlands, shallow fresh water over grasslands, swamps, water Forages in wetlands courses, and sometimes in estuarine and and estuarine habi- littoral habitats. Feeds on fish, crustaceans tats on vertebrates and insects. and invertebrates including fish and insects, newly hatched sea turtles and frogs. Mainly feeds at night.

Prefers shallow freshwater where it takes fish and aquatic invertebrates, as well as frogs, skinks and terrestrial invertebrates.

Photographs: J M Hanger Answers on page 21

Wildcare Australia, Inc. Page 20 Wildcare Australia welcomes the following new members:

Julia McCormick, Balmoral; Philippa De Palo, Bellbowrie; Luke Matthews, Blacks Beach; Janiene Dury, Brackken Ridge; Ross Smith, Burleigh Heads; Dale Killeen, Calamvale; Wendi Humphreys, Coolum Beach; Blake Dabron, Co- oran; John & Clare Boyd, Currumbin Valley; Fiona Medhurst, Fig Tree Pocket; Michelle & Justin Langford, Forest Glen; Shirley Lindsay, Forest Lake; Tamsin & Peter Westrup, Tina Ikin, Vicky Carlsson, Glass House Mountains; Erin Robert- son, Guanaba; Anne Syme, Gaye Wewer, Gympie; Renee Coleman & Thiemo Ulbrich, Jamboree Heights; Nicole McLean, Julia Creek; Kelly Pringle, Little Mountain; Linda McNally, Mackenzie; Amie Low, Mitchelton; Lauren Watts, Mooloolaba; Alison Morris, Mount Gravatt; Bo Fiala, Lyn McDonald, Narangba; Kigh Wessel, Nathan; Peter Mein, Palm Beach; Nina Hardie, Parkwood; Cheryl Lammeretz, Peachester ; Kristen Gooch, Peregian Beach; Nicole Brock, Red- land Bay; Yolande Webber, Tannum Sands; Donna Worland, The Gap; Amanda Ament, Karen Raison & Cullen Andrew, Tugun; Jacob White, Simone Smith, Upper Coomera; Penelope Privett, Victoria Point; Victoria Bailey, Woolloon- gabba; Priscilla Campbell, Worongary. Iris Matzath, Taungstedt, Germany.

By joining Wildcare Australia you are demonstrating your commitment to the welfare of Australia’s native animals. Please don’t hesitate to get involved in this, your organization. If you are unsure of where your personal niche may be, Call our office and I’m sure we will be able to help you. The office is open from 8:00am to 4:00pm most week days.

We hope you have a long and happy association with Wildcare Australia. JMHanger

CAGE LIBRARY PHOTO GALLERY ANSWERS

Clockwise, from upper right: We have received a couple of big donations from ex-breeders, lots of cages as well as food and water dishes all in immaculate ROYAL SPOONBILL condition. It was great to be able to help new carers get started by distributing these during the bird workshops over the last two JABIRU months. We frequently receive donations from generous people INTERMEDIATE EGRET so if you need cages or aviaries, please let me know. NANKEEN NIGHT HERON

AUSTRALIAN DARTER Dianna Smith 0409 223062

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For beautiful sculptured clay creatures from Australian bush animals to fantasy pieces. Phone Beth or Wayne 5533 3626

A comfortable three-bedroom home, sleeps eight, just 15 minutes from Bundaberg:

• Only 10 metres from the high water line, access right onto your beach, only 600 metres from the surf beach and park • Wildlife viewing: turtles, whales (in season), kanga- roos, possums, birds, manta rays, dolphins • Private location on a quiet street; child and pet friendly • Special Wildcare carer rates CONTACT: LAURA 3201 1078 / 0430 507 626 We would like to offer all carers a 10% discount upon presentation of their Wildcare card at our factory: Unit 1, 11 Ryecroft Street, Carrara.

Wildcare Australia, Inc. Page 22 WILDCARE AUSTRALIA WILDCARE VOLUNTEER CARERS WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE FOLLOWING VETS FOR THEIR GRATEFULLY ACKNOWLEDGES ALL OF DEDICATION AND TREATMENT OF OUR ITS SUPPORTERS AUSTRALIAN WILDLIFE... OUR CARERS ARE VERY GRATEFUL FOR THEIR SUPPORT ADOBE SOFTWARE ARAKAN MARTIAL ART ALBERT STREET VET CLINIC GREENCROSS ASHMORE HOLIDAY VILLAGE Beaudesert 5541 1233 Highland Park 5574 9622 AUSTRALIAN GEOGRAPHIC Mudgeeraba 5530 5555 BEECH MOUNTAIN STORE ANIMAL EMERGENCY CENTRE Nerang 5596 4899 BINNA BURRA TEA HOUSE St Lucia 3365 2110 Oxenford 5573 2670 BRADLEY TREVOR GREIVE BREEDERS CHOICE SEEDS ANIMAL REFERRAL CENTRE GYMPIE & DISTRICT VETERINARY BRETT RAGUSE MP FEDERAL (FORDE) Underwood 3841 7011 SERVICES CHATEAU BEACHSIDE RESORT Gympie 5482 2488 CITY LINKS SNACK BAR AUSTRALIAN WILDLIFE HOSPITAL Tin Can Bay 5486 4666 CURRUMBIN WILDLIFE SANCTUARY Beerwah 5436 2097 FILTRONICS KENILWORTH VET CLINIC FLEAYS WILDLIFE PARK COAST VET Kenilworth 5472 3085 GECKO Burleigh Waters 5520 6820 GOLD COAST POST FORMING Helensvale 5573 3355 MANLY ROAD VET HOSPITAL INTERNATIONAL FUND FOR ANIMAL WELFARE Robina 5593 0300 Manly 3396 9733 INVICTA FRAMING NERANG JOHN & MARGIE SPIES COOMERA RIVER VET SURGERY MT. TAMBORINE VET SURGERY JOHN WILLIAMSON Oxenford 5573 2670 5545 2422 LEWIS LAND CORPORATION THE MOUSE’S HOUSE CURRUMBIN VALLEY VET NOOSA VETERINARY SURGERY MUDGEERABA STATE PRIMARY SCHOOL SERVICES Tewantin 5449 7522 NERANG COLOUR COPY PETER WILSON Currumbin 5533 0381 SOUTHPORT VETERINARY CLINIC PETER the ORIGINAL POSSUM & BIRD MAN & HOSPITAL

Cr. PETER YOUNG Southport 5531 2573 CURRUMBIN WILDLIFE PRINT ONE NERANG SANCTUARY RED ROCKET MEDIA TUGUN VETERINARY SURGERY Currumbin 5534 0813 STATESMAN PRESS Tugun 5534 1928

TAMBORINE MT. NATURAL HISTORY ASSOC. DR. BRIAN PERRERS NATURAL ARCH CAFÉ RESTAURANT VETCALL Southport 5591 2246 VALLEY VIEW CAFÉ Burleigh 5593 5557

THE WAREHOUSE DISTRIBUTION CENTRE Mudgeeraba 5530 2204 GCARE

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If undeliverable, please return to: WILDCARE AUSTRALIA, INC. POSTAGE SURFACE PO BOX 2379 NERANG MAIL CENTRE PAID NERANG Q 4211 MAIL AUSTRALIA Print Post Approved PP442167/00008

Wildcare Australia, Inc. WILDNEWS - The Newsletter of Wildcare Australia, Inc. Page 23