Avian Influenza (H5N1), also known as bird flu, has now been confirmed in Australia. Here’s what it means for the Central Coast, how Wildlife A.R.C. is responding, and how you can help protect our native wildlife.
Each year, rescued possums spend many months – and sometimes over a year – in care before they’re ready for release. Finding the right location is a vital part of that journey. We’re currently looking for suitable properties across the Central Coast where these animals can safely return home with the little bit support they need to settle in.
Every spring, we see well-meaning people “rescue” fledgling birds that actually don’t need help. These young birds often spend a few days on the ground learning to fly while mum and dad keep a close eye nearby. Leave it be if it’s feathered, alert, and parents are around. Call for help if it’s injured, cold, unfeathered, or in danger.
Wildlife ARC urges members of the public to never touch injured or distressed bats. While the Australian Bat Lyssavirus is extremely rare, it is serious, and any bat bite or scratch should be treated immediately with thorough washing, antiseptic, and urgent medical care. Our trained carers can safely rescue bats on the Central Coast. Call our 24hr hotline.
We’re thrilled to share that Wildlife ARC has received a generous grant from WIRES, helping us improve the care and rescue of native wildlife on the Central Coast. Thanks to this support, we’ve been able to: Concrete the floor of the aviary belonging to trained and licensed Wildlife ARC carer
With the support of a grant from the NSW Wildlife Council’s 2024-2025 Wildlife Rehabilitation Program, Wildlife ARC has obtained a five bank custom-made reptile enclosure. The enclosure features lockable drop-down doors, light fittings, and thermostats, providing a safe and hygienic environment for reptiles needing intensive care, including sick or injured
Early Christmas morning, Wildlife ARC responded to an urgent call about a young Swamp wallaby struggling in the water under the wharf of The Entrance Boat Shed. Despite the holiday, ARC members, Cathie, Sue, Amanda, and our keen junior member, Elsie, rushed to help alongside caring members of the public.
You can find us at the Wyee Markets on the second Saturday of every month! Our dedicated volunteers will be there to chat with visitors about the work we do to rescue, rehabilitate, and release our native wildlife. The next market on Saturday 14th December is a Christmas fundraiser for
We are pleased to advise that samples collected from Pelican Beach have been tested by DPI vets and the results have come back negative for Avian Influenza. We will continue to follow protocols currently in place and will keep you updated with any changes. Although Shearwaters often present with symptoms
We’ve reported potential H5N1 Avian Influenza symptoms in bird species found on Central Coast beaches to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline. Government clearance is pending, so we currently have no access. Meanwhile, here’s how you can assist during this time:
