7th August 2026

How WIRES is supporting wildlife as temperatures are set to rise

As Australia looks ahead to spring and summer, WIRES is preparing early for a potentially challenging season for native wildlife. Current seasonal outlooks indicate an increased likelihood of warmer than average conditions across much of the country, and broader climate forecasts are also pointing to the possibility of drier conditions in parts of Australia as El Nino influences develop.

While no forecast can predict exactly how the months ahead will unfold, heatwaves, bushfires and extended dry periods can place significant pressure on wildlife, rescuers, carers and communities. For WIRES, preparing early is an important part of ensuring we can respond as safely and effectively as possible when native animals need help.

What the outlook is telling us

The Bureau of Meteorology has indicated that temperatures are likely to be above average across many parts of Australia in the coming months. El Nino conditions are often associated with hotter, drier conditions that affect people, landscapes and wildlife.

Extreme heat, reduced access to water and shelter, habitat loss, fires and smoke can all lead to increased stress in wildlife and a higher number of animals needing urgent assistance.

What this can mean for wildlife

During periods of extreme heat, animals can quickly become dehydrated, exhausted or disoriented. Birds may be seen with open beaks or holding their wings away from their bodies. Possums, gliders and koalas may come to the ground seeking cooler conditions. Kangaroos and wallabies may be reluctant to move, and reptiles may seek refuge in cooler, darker places. Flying foxes are particularly vulnerable during prolonged heat events, and large numbers of animals can be affected at the same time.

Bushfires and fire-affected landscapes can create additional risks. Wildlife may suffer burns, smoke inhalation, dehydration, starvation, displacement, or loss of shelter. Animals may also move onto roads, into backyards, sheds, pools, or other unfamiliar spaces while searching for safety, food or water.

Grey-headed flying foxes affected by heat stress

How WIRES is preparing

WIRES is preparing early by strengthening response capacity across our rescue network, Wildlife Rescue Office and emergency teams. New telephone responders are being trained to make sure we are equipped and ready for high call volumes in the months to come.

Our full-time Emergency Responders, equipped with Wildlife Ambulances across New South Wales, and in Tasmania and Southern Queensland, respond to critical rescues and can be deployed to disaster-affected areas when additional support is needed. WIRES has also established Volunteer Emergency Response Teams, made up of specially trained volunteers who can assist during major incidents.

Ahead of fire season, WIRES is supporting volunteers with preparedness and evacuation guidance, particularly for carers in rural or higher-risk areas. Trained and vaccinated bat volunteers are also working with local councils to identify flying-fox colonies and prepare for heat-stress events, which can affect large numbers of animals at once.

During emergencies, WIRES’ Incident Management Teams work alongside the Wildlife Rescue Office to prioritise calls, coordinate rescue efforts and liaise with emergency services, veterinary clinics, the Bureau of Meteorology and other wildlife organisations. Through the WIRES Disaster Relief Program, supported by Major Partner Woolworths, wildlife food, rescue supplies and equipment can also be distributed to affected carers and communities.

King parrot drinking - Image credit David C Simon

How you can help wildlife in hot weather

Your support can make a real difference to wildlife during extreme weather, but your safety must always come first. Never enter active or recently burnt fire grounds to search for wildlife, and always follow official emergency advice.

• Providing small bowls of clean water in safe locations, with sticks or stones placed inside so small animals can climb out, can assist animals searching for water.
• Keeping cats contained and dogs under control can help wildlife move through properties safely.
• Do not pour water into an animal’s mouth, as this can cause them further harm.
• If you find sick, injured, orphaned, heat-stressed or fire-affected wildlife, contact WIRES on 1300 094 737.

Some animals, including snakes, flying-foxes, microbats, large kangaroos, raptors and monitors, require specialist handling. Keep a safe distance and call WIRES for advice and assistance.

WIRES is working to ensure wildlife receives timely and appropriate help when it is needed the most.

For more information on how to help wildlife in extreme heat, visit our Extreme Heat Wildlife Factsheet.