Valerie Curtis said;
There was absolutely no
> mention of needing to obtain a license or any other legal responsibility
on
> her part. This does not correlate with all the legal documentation that
has
> been published on this site in recent weeks, but does seem to take a far
> more realistic and humanitarian approach to the natural instincts of
people
> who want to look after any little wild creature they happen to find in
> difficulties. I applaud this attitude but do realise that the laws are not
> made for honest people. As far as I know the lady who phoned in was not a
> licensed wildlife carer.
I do realise you are discussing Qld but having recently joined Wildlife
Victoria I certainly believe permits for wildlife rehab are required in
Vict. and the below mentions other states also.
Going from their web site
http://home.vicnet.net.au/~wildnet/training_schedule.htm
"The practical caring for wildlife is very different from caring for
domesticated animals and may be much more difficult and demanding than
initially expected. A good deal of expertise and knowledge is required to
provide high quality care to injured, distressed and orphaned wildlife.
Whilst anyone can rescue an animal in distress, not everyone is allowed to
care for and rehabilitate wildlife. In all states and territories of
Australia, a government permit or licence is required to handle and to
temporarily contain and care for native wildlife. Prior to applying for a
wildlife rehabilitation permit or licence, it is recommended that
prospective rehabilitators undertake specific training."
The "Code of practice for the welfare of wildlife during rehabilitation"
also states that all wildlife in Victoria is protected under the Wildlife
Act 1975 and that a Wildlife Shelter Permit is required from the DNRE.
Rehab volunteers also need to demonstrate they are appropriately trained
through various accredited courses/ seminars etc. It also mentions that up
to three foster carers may be nominated under each permit to provide
assistance to the permit holder.
For birds alone the Code of practice includes a full page of various cage
requirements and guidelines for various species and special requirements for
rehabilitating waders.
Wildlife Victoria has a 24 hour wildlife rescue network called WILDLINE and
I know NSW has a similar set-up with WIRES enabling prompt assistance and
care by trained volunteers who are experienced in such matters as
assessment, veterinary care requirements, quarantine & disease control,
feeding and housing, handling and release procedures.
Cheers,
Karen.
Birding-Aus is on the Web at
www.shc.melb.catholic.edu.au/home/birding/index.html
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