Taronga Western Plains Zoo’s Wildlife Hospital is currently caring for a male Echidna that was found on the side of the highway after most likely being hit by a car. A staff member from the Zoo came across the injured animal and brought it in for assessment and treatment. Following veterinary assessment it was discovered the Echidna had a fractured beak and will therefore need to spend the next month receiving supportive treatment and care at the Wildlife Hospital before being reassessed.

So far the Echidna is showing positive signs of recovering from the injury and veterinary staff are hopefully he will be released back into the wild once fully recovered.

This case is a timely reminder to motorists to watch out for wildlife on our roads especially at dawn and dusk when wildlife are generally more active. If you come across an injured animal you can contact the Zoo’s Wildlife Hospital on 6881 1461 for advice about how be to transport it to the Zoo so it can be assessed by the veterinary team.