Wildlife officers rescue animals being kept illegally at a property West of Bundaberg

A kangaroo and wallaby have been given a new home following an investigation by wildlife officers where more than 90 animals were found being kept illegally by an unlicensed wildlife carer. See the photos and video here.

A kangaroo and wallaby have been given a new home in Rockhampton following an investigation by wildlife officers where more than 90 animals were found being kept illegally by an unlicensed wildlife carer at a property west of Bundaberg.

Manager of Wildlife and Threatened Species at the Department of Environment and Science Frank Mills said 56 kangaroos and wallabies, nine freshwater turtles and 23 native birds were being held unlawfully and in conditions that did not meet required standards.

Footage from a body-worn camera showed a macropod jumping around inside a home that looked to be in a very poor condition.

Mr Mills said the Department of Environment and Science first received concerns about the welfare of native wildlife being cared for by a wildlife carer in August 2021.

“Following an investigation, DES executed a warrant at a property in Central Queensland in November 2021 and seized a large number of animals,” he said.

“The wildlife carer’s permit expired in 2010, and she did not hold the relevant rehabilitation permit to keep or rehabilitate the animals.

“Following an assessment of the animals by a veterinarian, all but three of the seized animals were either released back into the wild or transferred to permitted wildlife carers for further care and rehabilitation.

Wildlife officers transporting the seized kangaroo and wallaby to their new home at Rockhampton Zoo. Picture: Contributed

“Three juvenile macropods which were not suitable for release were left at the property while the department explored long-term care options.”

He said sadly, one macropod had since died.

However, he said late last week wildlife officers removed the remaining eastern grey kangaroo and red-necked wallaby which were successfully transported to their new home at Rockhampton Zoo.

Wildlife officers releasing the seized kangaroo and wallaby at Rockhampton Zoo. Picture: Contributed

He said that during the operation, wildlife officers also found another large eastern grey kangaroo and five turtles that were also seized and would now be assessed by a veterinarian.

Under the Nature Conservation Act 1992, carers and wildlife groups are required to hold permits to rehabilitate sick, injured, or orphaned protected animals so they can be returned to the wild.

“Most wildlife carers do an amazing job caring for and rehabilitating our native wildlife, but it is important they hold the relevant permits,” Mr Mills said.

The eastern grey kangaroo and red-necked wallaby at Rockhampton Zoo. Picture: Contributed

“Wildlife carers are also required to comply with strict animal welfare requirements under the Code of Practice Care of Sick, Injured or Orphaned Protected Animals in Queensland.

“DES will take strong action against anyone operating unlawfully or putting the conservation or welfare of our native wildlife at risk.

“Anyone concerned about the conduct of wildlife carers can report them to the department by calling 1300 130 372.”

It is understood the wildlife carer was not charged nor were investigations ongoing into the matter.