The devastating wildfires in Australia caused immense destruction, but they also brought hope and inspiring stories of human kindness through the rescue of beloved animals.”
Since January 9, 2020, bushfires have been raging across southern and eastern Australia. Chris Dickman, an Australian biodiversity expert at the University of Sydney, stated that nearly one billion animals have died, and some species are even at risk of extinction due to the disaster. Many heartbreaking images have emerged across Australia, especially with koalas, kangaroos, and rare wildlife.
With damages to 15.6 million acres of land, Australia not only faces a risk of agricultural land shortages but also a lack of habitat and food sources for animals. Therefore, day and night, brave firefighters risk their lives to fight the fires and rescue wildlife in the forests. Their heroic actions create hope, compassion, and spread kindness, inspiring many people to follow suit. Here are 7 touching stories of animal rescue during the recent bushfire crisis in Australia.
- SERVICE DOG ASSISTS IN FINDING KOALAS
A heroic dog saves koalas in Australian bushfires. Photo: nastroy
A group of animal trainers from the organization Working Dogs for Conservation trained dogs to locate surviving koalas using their scent after bushfires. Last November, Bear – a mixed breed Collie and Koolie – found the refuge of surviving koalas in a native reserve in Ballina that the fire couldn’t reach. In addition, a British Springer Spaniel puppy, Taylor, also helped locate eight surviving koalas with their mother.
- THE WILDLIFE PARK MANAGER TAKES ANIMALS HOME
The Mogo Wildlife Park in New South Wales, Australia. Photo: Youtube.
In early January, a media agency in Australia reported that the director of Mogo Wildlife Park in New South Wales had upgraded his current job to a new level. As the fire gradually approached the zoo due to the wind, threatening the lives of 200 species including tigers, rhinos, and many rare animals, Staples performed a special rescue operation for the animals by taking them to his home. Thanks to this bold plan, some baby monkeys, tigers, red pandas, and one of the endangered species, were saved from the fierce flames. Along with the tireless firefighting efforts of everyone around the zoo, all the animals here were safely rescued.
- HUNTER BECOMES A RESCUER
Patrick Boyle – the humane hunter chose to stay in the wildlife rescue town. Photo: Twitter
On January 4th, the Australian media reported some good news about Patrick Boyle, a 22-year-old hunter. He chose to stay in the bushfire-ravaged town of Mallacoota, Victoria to rescue wild animals when government rescue efforts were delayed by the raging flames. The hunter explained to the media that he felt it was his responsibility to do everything he could to save the local wildlife. In total, he rescued 8 to 9 koalas and brought them to the local wildlife rescue center.
- THOUSANDS OF KNITTED ITEMS SENT TO AUSTRALIA.
From Disaster Comes Creativity: Knitted Gear Helps Injured Wildlife
The bushfire disaster in Australia destroyed much, but it also sparked endless creativity in humans. Just like the penguin incident on Phillip Island where oil spill casualties were knitted sweaters, this time the koalas are receiving the same help. Thousands of knitted items from all over the world have been sent to Australia as protective gloves and socks for injured animals such as koalas, kangaroos, and bats. Starting from January 7th, donations from 40 US states and Puerto Rico, as well as countries in Asia and Europe, have been sent to the animal rescue association. This is a prime example of the saying “necessity is the mother of invention,” demonstrating the hidden creativity of humans.
- Establishment of Wildlife Support Material Storage Center
The Rescue Collective, an animal rescue organization based in Brisbane, has stockpiled all types of supplies to aid in the feeding, watering, and medicating of wild animals, and has set up storage centers to deliver to areas in need. Starting from January 8th, the organization’s Facebook page announced that they had received such a large volume of donations that they had to temporarily halt accepting more. The story showcases the generosity of people worldwide, who not only spread love and compassion but also contribute with material goods.
- Searching for Shelter
Even amidst the chaos of natural disasters, heartwarming stories of kindness and generosity often emerge. Strangers from all over the world come together to offer their support and aid to those affected. In the aftermath of devastating wildfires, many families are forced to flee their homes with nothing but the clothes on their backs. In some cases, these families are fortunate enough to be taken in by strangers who offer them shelter and support during their time of need. These acts of goodwill show that even in the darkest of times, there is still hope and kindness to be found in the hearts of others.
7. Goodwill from strangers
Despite animal shelters’ efforts to accommodate animals affected by emergencies, such as forest fires, there are instances when they are unable to take in more animals. In these cases, local communities have stepped up to provide assistance. One such example is Erin Riley, a college student who opened up her pasture to provide shelter for displaced animals during forest fires. When the demand for housing exceeded the capacity of her pasture, Erin founded a database for volunteers called “Find A Bed,” which provides lodging for both people and animals. With the help of 40 volunteers, the service has received 3,500 offers of assistance from strangers across Australia, Canada, and the United States.