An
animal that is concussed may appear dead so unless a hundred
percent certain that it is dead, treat as if it were injured.
Remembering
that these are wild animals always take caution when picking
them up no matter how docile they may appear.
The
most effective way that we have found is using a large towel
or sheet etc approach the animal from behind and swiftly and
directly scoop the animal up and restrain in a cardboard box
with the lid closed. Place in a quiet ,dark area and phone for
help. Don't give it anything to eat or drink .
All
the females of these animals have pouches so if you see one
injured or dead on the road, there is a 50% chance that it has
a baby and an even better chance that the baby is fine.
If
there is a joey keep it in the pouch and place the mothers body
in a cardboard box. If the pouch is empty, check the area around
the mother as the baby may have been thrown out.
If
the baby has been thrown from the pouch or you cannot take the
mothers body with you then you must provide the baby with warmth.
These little ones are still very dependent on their mothers
and depending on their stage of development, cannot regulate
their own temperatures and require heat.
Wrap
the animal snugly in a clean cloth or beanie. You want the baby
to feel secure. Remember it would still be in its mothers pouch
or just starting to emerge from the pouch.
Then
place the animal against your chest and phone your local Wildlife
Rescue group or National Parks office.
|