An echidna that was run over outside the Chocolate Factory at Newhaven has been nursed back to health by a team of eight volunteers.
Wildlife rescuers say echidnas are currently active because it is mating season, which runs July to early September, and males can travel up to several kilometres in search of females.
Wildlife Rescue & Rehab Shelter Phillip Island & Bass Coast rescuer Colleen Gilbee said on the evening of July 29 a car travelling inbound drove over a juvenile female echidna at Newhaven and did not stop.
“Luckily a member of the public was on her way home and saw the incident and immediately called wildlife rescue,” Colleen said.
“She then sat out in the cold and waited with the echidna until help arrived.”
Colleen collected the echidna and kept it overnight.
Wildlife Victoria’s Travelling Vet Service drove a total 270 kilometres for the echidna, providing a full health check, oxygen, X-rays, pain relief and subcutaneous fluids.
“The echidna received 24/7 monitored care and special food given twice a day for seven days before it was well enough to be released last weekend close to where it was found,” she said.
“It took a whole team of people, including transporters and foster carers, to help one animal.”
Colleen said drivers should keep an eye out for all animals, but especially echidnas at this time.
“Their wandering behaviour at this time helps increase the chances of encountering a receptive female for mating.
“If you see an echidna trying to cross the road please slow down to let it pass. You can pull over if it is safe to do so and put your hazard lights on to encourage other drivers to slow down.”
To assist in echidna conservation you can download the app “Echidna CSI” to log sightings and record other information.
Rescuers say accidents happen, but please always stop and call in a wildlife care service.
*For rescues and assistance 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, please call Wildlife Victoria on (03) 8400 7300
To support the local wildlife shelter please donate directly to:
Wildlife Rescue & Rehab Shelter Phillip Island & Bass Coast
BSB: 633 000
Account number: 169 091 246