Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital visits surge as ’urban sprawl’ named as key North Coast threat

Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital has been tackling a massive surge in hospitalisations, with “urban sprawl” named as the biggest threat vulnerable native animals are facing. Find out more.

The Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital has seen a massive surge in animal hospitalisations this year, with “urban sprawl” the biggest threat native animals in northern NSW have been facing.

The veterinary hospital has recorded a 70 per cent increase in hospitalisations in the past year – with habitat loss, vehicle strikes, pet attacks and other trauma to blame.

It comes after the Federal 2024 Budget did not provide new funding streams to help protect endangered species – including koalas – which are vulnerable to extinction.

The Wildlife Hospital’s general manager of strategy and story Russell Mills said concerns were mounting about species disappearing entirely.

Russell Mills from the Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital. Picture: File

“Native animals face numerous threats from being hit by cars, attacked by feral pests and domestic pets, habitat loss, disease and natural disasters,” he said.

Habitat destruction remains the biggest threat to not just northern NSW wildlife, but Australian wildlife more widely. About 80 per cent of koala habitats have been destroyed or are considered no longer suitable because of ongoing sprawl.

A koala at the Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital. Picture: Supplied

Mr Mills said it was crucial to protect – as well as restore – koala and other animal habitats across the region before it’s too late.

“People come to this region because of our natural landscapes – they don’t come here because of heavy industry or urban sprawl,” he said.

“So by protecting the landscape we are also protecting the economy which is driven by tourism.

“Protecting wildlife is part of protecting biodiversity, having healthy ecosystems and threatened species secure in the wild ensures we do have a healthy biodiversity.”

The Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital truck. Picture: Supplied

The hospital has been supportive of an initiative by carbon neutral tech company Felix Mobile, which donated two million trees – one tree a month for every customer.

Wildlife Hospital vet and general manager of veterinary services Dr Bree Talbot said similar initiatives by individuals and businesses had a huge impact on koala – and the health of the whole ecosystem.

Dr Bree Talbot with a koala. Picture: Supplied

“The work projects like these do in restoring land and providing habitat for wildlife is critical to ensure a sustainable future for all and for our Australian wildlife to survive and flourish,” she said.

Mr Mills said the current economy has made for “a difficult fundraising climate”.

She said if the Wildlife Hospital received ongoing funding it could cover the cost of veterinary operations for local Aussie wildlife.

A Wedge-tailed eagle at the Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital. Picture: Supplied

A June report from the Parliamentary Inquiry into veterinary workforce shortages recommended the NSW government provide dedicated and ongoing funding for the provision of vet services for wildlife.

Mr Mills said: “We welcome this report and look forward to participating in the statewide consultation announced by the NSW Government earlier this year to improve wildlife rehabilitation and care.”

“It would also send a strong message to the private sector that the government recognises and supports the work of wildlife rescue organisations and hospitals like ours.”