Gruyere wombat trap: Animal euthanised after Waratah Wildlife Shelter rescue

Wildlife carers who were called to rescue a distressed wombat caught in an illegal trap in a Yarra Valley conservation park came across a “truly horrific” scene — and they had to make a life-or-death decision.

This poor wombat was ensnared by its arm in an illegal, homemade trap in Gruyere. Picture: Waratah Wildlife Shelter

A wombat has had to be euthanised after it was discovered with extensive injuries caused by an illegal homemade trap in Gruyere.

The State Government has launched an investigation to find the culprit after a nearby resident reported the horrific trapping in the Warramate Hills Nature Conservation Reserve to a wildlife shelter on Saturday, May 16.

When it was found, the poor animal had extensive injuries, with one of its legs ensnared in the wire of the homemade trap that had been placed in bushland near Killara Rd.

Waratah Wildlife Shelter members went out to rescue the wombat and described the scene as “truly horrific”.

“Initially I tried to remove the trap but the wire was wrapped so tightly around his foot that I was unable to safely cut through it,” the post said.

“I instead took a closer look at his injuries and assessed his likelihood of survival should we be able to safely get him out of the bush.

“Unfortunately it was then that I realised the only thing I could do for him was to end this ordeal and euthanise him.”

The wildlife worker said the wombat’s shoulder was badly dislocated from struggling to free itself from the trap.

“I cannot understand why someone thought it was okay to do this? Do you not realise that your actions have consequences beyond your control?” the post said.

“These sorts of traps are illegal for a reason – they’re cruel and barbaric.”

Conservation Regulator Forest and Wildlife officer Hannah Ransome said she believed the animal had been trapped for some time and had to be euthanised because of the severity of its injuries.

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Ms Ransome said wildlife was protected in Victoria and the penalty for illegally hunting, taking or destroying protected animals was $8261 or six months in jail.

“A homemade trap is a cruel and barbaric way to treat our native wildlife,” she said.

“These traps can cause significant pain and torment, and can result in prolonged suffering for the wildlife.

“It is an offence for any person to set any kind of trap on public land which may impact or cause injury to wildlife.”

Ms Ransome said an investigation was under way and anyone with information should make a report to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.