By EMMA SUN
Vets worried over dramatic rise in wildlife deaths…
SEVEN wallabies and two wombats have been killed by high speed traffic while crossing Monbulk Road in Mount Evelyn in less than six months.
McKillop Road residents Elaine and Adrian Castellini said the incidents have left them and their neighbours gravely concerned for the welfare of other wildlife.
The Castellinis have lived on their property for more than 25 years.
Mr Castellini is the veterinary director of Kilsyth Vets and his wife works as a vet nurse.
Ms Castellini said in their time in Mount Evelyn, they had never seen anything so bad.
“This is the worst year ever, I’ve never ever seen so many dead wallabies and wombats,” she said.
“It’s horrendous, I just can’t believe it and it’s really sad.”
She said the accidents mostly happen between 5.30pm and 6pm each night, which she found quite strange.
“We don’t know why they’re all coming out from the scrub, we know a couple of them that were hit were crossing along a pathway they normally take,” she said.
“But it’s really bizarre because there’s plenty of grass around the place.
“We never used to see as many bouncing around the paddock so maybe they have been breeding successfully and now they’re getting onto the road.”
It is believed two of the wallabies were females, and were carrying undeveloped young that were also killed.
Ms Castellini said it was heartbreaking to see the animals that they would normally find grazing in their backyards dead on the road.
She said it wasn’t uncommon that the animal would be left where they were hit.
“People need to be really conscious at dusk and dawn, as that’s when they’re out and about the most, and most likely to get hit,” she said.
The pair are urging people to be wary when driving and to check the condition of the animal should they hit one.
“If the animal is still alive, cover its head with a cloth and if it’s a kangaroo or wallaby that might be having a fit, tie its back legs together so it doesn’t kick you,” Ms Castellini said.
People who find animals that have been injured by a vehicle are urged to take it to the nearest vet, who will find a place for it to heal.
Motorists can also contact Wildlife Victoria’s Emergency Response Service on 1300 094 535 to report a sick, injured or orphaned animal.
Wildlife Victoria will then locate the nearest volunteer who will determine the most appropriate course of action.
