Taronga Western Plains Zoo’s Wildlife Hospital has been caring for a sub-adult Echidna for the past six weeks that was found in an abandoned mine shaft near Stuart Town. The local resident who came across the Echidna went to great lengths to rescue it and took it to a WIRES carer who in turn brought it to the Zoo’s Wildlife Hospital.

The Echidna had extensive injuries, it was weak and had severe wounds to its feet and wasn’t eating. It underwent an initial assessment from the Zoo’s veterinarian as well as a series of tests before receiving intensive rehabilitation including antibiotics, pain relief, fluids and electrolytes.

The Echidna has improved remarkably given its debilitated state on presentation to the Wildlife Hospital and is now recovering well and likely to be released back to the wild within the next month.

Taronga Western Plains Zoo’s Wildlife Hospital sees over 500 wildlife cases every year. If you come across an injured or orphaned native animal you can contact the Wildlife Hospital on 6881 1461 or WIRES on 1300 027 905 for assistance.