What’s being done to help native species?

Scientists all over Australia are researching our threatened species and are developing ways to help save them.

Recovery Teams are being formed. These people prepare Recovery Plans that outline the causes of a species decline and what needs to be done to prevent that species from becoming extinct. These plans are being implemented for some species.

Feral animal control is carried out in many areas.

Captive breeding for release is being implemented for some species. Some areas are being fenced. Feral animals are being eradicated from these areas and native species are reintroduced.

Perth Zoo has a very successful breeding-for-release program for threatened native species, known as the Native Species Breeding Program.

What can you do to help native species?

Practice responsible pet ownership:

• Cats and dogs do not belong in the bush. To prevent unwanted pets, sterilise cats and dogs. 
• Put two bells on your cat's collar. This may alert potential prey to the cat's presence. (Did you know that many cats learn how to move to muffle the sound of a single bell? Two bells overcome this.) 
• Keep your cat in at night, as this is when many native species are most active.

Drive carefully. Many animals are killed by cars while foraging near roads and tracks or when crossing roads.

Take your rubbish home:

• Small animals can become caught in plastic bags or fishing line, resulting in injury or death. They may eat bubble gum, used bandaids and pieces of aluminium foil. Native animals need to find food from natural sources. 
• Avoid feeding native animals in your area. Animals can become dependent on food left out by people who think they are doing the right thing.

Get involved:

• Become pro-active. Encourage your local council to protect remnant vegetation in your local area or join a community group that is active in on-ground recovery actions such as the revegetation of areas to provide habitat for native animals. 
• Volunteer at your local wildlife department or wildlife rescue organisation. 
• Grow your own habitat. Grow native trees, shrubs and plants in your garden to help feed the 'locals'. You'll be surprised who visits your garden if it is fauna friendly. 
• Take care not to start bushfires. 
• Take care not to trample on habitat. 
• Control feral pests on your property. 
• Protect a remnant area of native bush on or near your property. 
• Take care not to spread Phytophthera Dieback disease when travelling through bushland areas.
• Do not remove dead trees or logs from the bush for firewood. Dead trees and logs provide important habitat for many native species. 
• Build a frog pond habitat. 
• Do a Tiwest Night Stalk!

If you find an injured native mammal, wrap it in a jumper, towel or
blanket and place it in a cardboard box or something similar. The animal will probably be in shock and will need to be kept somewhere that is dark and quiet. Take it to the nearest vet, wildlife department or wildlife carer as soon as possible as they will have specific knowledge to care for wild animals. Be careful when approaching or handling injured animals. Call the 24hr Wildcare Hotline on 9474 9055 if you come across an injured animal and they can tell you what to do and where to go.

If you encounter a rare animal – dead or alive – record the date, location and time and let your local wildlife department know as soon as possible.