How to help native wildlife during flooding

Unless you're a trained wildlife expert or animal carer, don't try to save animals yourself. Entering floodwaters can put yourself at serious risk of injury and illness, and animals trapped in flood water may panic if approached, causing further risk to them and yourself.

You can provide shelter for birds by securing a plant pot or hanging basket securely to a tree and filling it with dry grass and twigs.

Mammals may also seek shelter in unexpected places like a cubby house or a car's engine bay, so you might need to have a careful search around your property when it's safe to do so.

Reptiles, spiders, and insects will move higher during floods so be aware of unexpected visitors in trees, underneath raised houses, or inside garden sheds.

Between the water quality and the wildlife it’s definitely good practice to wear enclosed shoes, gloves, and long pants and sleeves while cleaning up.

Contact the experts

BARN - Brisbane Area Wildlife Rescue Network
Brisbane
0405 056 066

Koala Rescue and Wildlife Rescue Advice
Redland City
(07) 3833 4031

Pine Rivers Koala Care
Moreton Bay and North Brisbane areas
0401 350 799

QLD Wildlife Carers and Volunteers
Bundaberg
0439 502 228

RSPCA
Across Qld
1300 264 625 / 1300 ANIMAL

Wildcare
South East QLD: Brisbane, Gympie, Toowoomba, Gold Coast
07 5527 2444

WILVO's - Wildlife Volunteers Association Inc.
Sunshine Coast
(07) 5441 6200

Find and save contacts for local snake catchers