Victoria Rallies to Save Wildlife After Devastating Fires

When fires swept through Victoria this month, burning an area five times the size of Singapore, thousands of native animals faced their greatest challenge in years. But the response from experts and everyday people is proving that recovery is possible, even in Australia's most cleared state.

The fires affected an incredibly diverse range of habitats, from the Wimmera-Mallee region to the alpine areas. Many animals survived by using clever tactics like echidnas digging underground to sleep and conserve energy, while others found refuge in wombat burrows, waterways, and rock piles.

Wildlife caregivers discovered a joey near the Harcourt fire, just one of many animals now receiving expert care. Tragically, thousands of flying foxes died from extreme heat and smoke, and many animals still face threats from feral predators drawn to the more open, burnt landscape.

Government agencies and scientists are already developing recovery plans as they survey affected areas. These include installing artificial refuges for displaced animals and creating safe corridors in Victoria's fragmented landscape where hollows and suitable habitat are already scarce.

The Ripple Effect

The community response has been immediate and heartfelt. People across Victoria are putting out water dishes with stones in them so small animals can drink safely without drowning. Wildlife-friendly gardens are popping up to give displaced creatures temporary homes.

Experts are carefully managing the recovery to protect both animals and people. In northwest Victoria's Big Desert-Wyperfeld region, conservationists are working with livestock graziers to protect the rare Wilkerr dingo population, estimated at fewer than 100 adults, as they seek water and cover outside their burned habitat.

Rock wallabies in the Gariwerd-Grampians fires are receiving professional feeding support. Charities focused on injured wildlife care are receiving donations that directly fund rescue and rehabilitation efforts.

The long road ahead requires patience, as some tree hollows take over 100 years to form and many threatened species like greater gliders and spotted-tailed quolls depend on them. But with coordinated efforts between agencies, scientists, and caring communities, Victoria's unique wildlife has fighting chance.

Every water dish placed, every donation made, and every wildlife-friendly garden planted creates one more safe space for animals navigating their changed world.