Keep echidnas safe this breeding season

It’s echidna breeding season, and that means it’s time to keep an eye out for the roaming mammals on our roads.

Lockyer Valley Regional Council’s Environment Portfolio Councillor Cheryl Steinhardt said now is the time of year when these unique Aussie animals regularly try to cross roads in search of a mate.

“From June through to September, these amazing creatures become more active both day and night, and this increases their chances of getting into trouble.

“Many echidnas are either injured or killed each year by motor vehicles.

“On sensing an approaching car, echidnas try to dig into the bitumen and curl up, leaving them very vulnerable.

“They can often sustain serious, life-threatening injuries after being hit by a car, yet show no outward sign that they are hurt, and many injuries are only identified by using X-rays and ultrasounds,” she said.

Cr Steinhardt encouraged motorists to be alert for echidnas, especially at dawn and dusk, and to slow down on roads known for active wildlife.

“Another step to help protect them is to keep pets indoors at night to avoid unwanted encounters.

“However, if you do spot an echidna who is already in a safe space, don’t force it to move as it may cause them to become disorientated or separated from their young,” she said.

If you come across an echidna that needs assistance:

• Call a wildlife carer and follow the instructions given.
• If advised by a wildlife carer and if safe to do so, use a towel to gently pick up the echidna and secure it within a very sturdy container.
• Ensure the container is strong as echidnas are easily able to work themselves out of most boxes.
• In hot weather they should be kept in a quiet cool place while assistance is sought.

If you encounter an injured echidna, contact:

• Wildlife Rescue, Rehabilitation and Education Association Inc: 07 4630 5208
• A.R.R.O.W: 0400 710 651
• UQ Vets: 5460 1788
• RSPCA QLD: 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625)

For more information, visit https://www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/our-services/environment-and-pest-management/wildlife