Native animal rescue organisation WIRES knows only too well that the North West region of Sydney enjoys a wonderful diversity of native animals and birds with the local branch regularly being called to rescue injured wildlife of all types.

WIRES North West Chair and Bird coordinator Deborah Martin said the area is one of the few remaining outer suburbs of Sydney that retains a number of important habitat areas and as such, more volunteers are always needed to keep up with the number of injured, sick or displaced native animals.

“Being able to assist in rescuing, rehabilitating and then releasing native animals back into their natural environment is such a rewarding experience,” said Ms Martin. “And to assist people in learning how to care for these wonderful creatures, WIRES conducts accredited training courses where they can learn what’s required from the experts.”

WIRES North West volunteers are currently caring for a menagerie of animals including a possum joey named Fuzzy, that was rescued from a back garden in Beaumont Hills weighing just 145g.  WIRES volunteer Kerrie Sicard is delighted with Fuzzy’s progress as he has already gained 20g and will remain in her care until May before being released back into a safe area.

A pair of fledging Olive-backed Orioles weighed in at just 54g and 63g when they were handed over to WIRES volunteer Alex Wnorowski. Thanks to her excellent care they are doing well and in just two weeks are tipping the scales at 80g and 90g!

Anyone interested in attending the upcoming accredited WIRES Rescue and Immediate Care Course on 28 February at Kings Langley can email training@wires.org.au.  For more information on WIRES please visit wires.org.au