The Hidden Tragedy of Fencing: A Call for Compassionate Action
Fencing. To many, it's a simple boundary demarcation, a way to protect property and livestock. But for our precious wildlife, it can be a deadly trap. Every year, countless animals (kangaroos, joeys, bats, birds etc) become entangled in fences, leading to slow, painful deaths. The struggle to free themselves can result in horrific injuries—dislocated hips, broken feet, and deep lacerations. The agony and desperation they experience are heart-wrenching.
Jarew found by two young guys. He was dehydrated and suffered tendon damage to his hip resulting in no sensation in his foot. At Amaris and doing well. Current Vet bill $5k
Imagine a kangaroo, like Jarew’s Mummy, who in a frantic escape attempt, leaves her joey behind, entangled in the wire. The joey's cries go unheard, and he was left to suffer. Or think of Jaxon, who struggled so fiercely to free himself that he broke both his feet. It took days to capture him because he was still mobile, despite his grievous injuries.
New fencing continues to rise in areas that were once the homes of these animals. Mothers and their young find themselves on opposite sides, unable to reunite. Their cries echo through the night, a sad reminder of the barriers we've erected. As they desperately try to find a way back to each other, they risk further injury, or worse, becoming easy prey.
The Cruelty of Barbed Wire
Barbed wire is particularly cruel to wildlife. Its sharp edges and pointed barbs can cause deep lacerations, infections, and severe injuries to animals that become entangled. Birds, mammals, and reptiles alike can suffer tremendously from these injuries. The purpose of barbed wire is typically to deter or contain livestock, but its unintended victims are often the wildlife that shares these spaces. The distress and pain caused by barbed wire are unnecessary and preventable.
The Tragedy of Ringlock Fencing
Ringlock fencing is another common but dangerous type of fencing for wildlife. Although it is often chosen for its cost-effectiveness, it poses significant risks to animals, especially joeys. Their delicate toes can easily get caught in the rings, leading to severe injuries and entanglements. The struggle to free themselves can result in broken limbs, dislocations, and prolonged suffering. The trauma and pain experienced by these animals are immense and needless.
Why Aren't We Installing Wildlife-Friendly Fencing?
The question we must ask ourselves is why aren't more people installing wildlife-friendly fencing or kangaroo gates? It's a small change that can make a monumental difference. Wildlife-friendly fencing options, such as raised bottom wires, smooth wire strands, and wider spacing, allow animals to pass through without harm. Kangaroo gates can be installed to provide safe passage for these iconic creatures, ensuring their safety and reducing the risk of entanglement.
Alternatives and Resources
Here are some resources for wildlife-friendly fencing alternatives:
A Call for Compassion
We urge farmers and landowners to be compassionate and consider the impact of their fencing choices on wildlife. Installing wildlife-friendly fencing and gates is not only an act of kindness but also a step towards coexistence and conservation.
Be Aware and Make the Call
For the public, awareness is key. If you see an animal entangled in a fence, do not attempt to free it yourself. Instead, call your local wildlife rescue organisation. Trying to free the animal without professional help can cause further injuries, infections, and even myopathy, leading to a long, slow, and painful death.
By working together, we can create a safer environment for our wildlife and ensure that these tragic incidents become a thing of the past. Let’s make our fences a symbol of protection and compassion, not a barrier to survival.
Caree and her bub Coco-Bella separated by a new fence in what was once their playgound. It took me 2 hours to re unite them. Coco-Bella still a baby was predator bait
Warning: The following content includes graphic descriptions of animal suffering.
The reality of these dangers is captured in heartbreaking photographs of kangaroos entangled in fences. These images show the severe injuries and suffering endured by these animals—mangled limbs, deep cuts, and the sheer desperation in their eyes. Such graphic evidence underscores the urgent need for humane fencing solutions and compassionate action to protect our wildlife.
A Tragic Loss at Amaris Wildlife Sanctuary. RIP Jaxon Read his story here Meet Jaxon
R.I.P. Jaxon Your life mattered.
We would like to share a series of photos from Rescue Rehabilitate Release (RRR), showcasing the daily challenges faced by wildlife carers across our country. These images serve as a powerful reminder of the dedication and compassion required to rescue, rehabilitate, and release our precious wildlife.
A heartfelt thank you to Krysti from RRR, who does such an amazing job rescuing our wildlife. Please follow her work and consider donating to support her efforts if you are able. Your contributions can make a significant difference in the lives of these animals and the people who care for them.
Reposted with permission from
Bannockburn Wildlife Rescue in Victoria
Matt reached out to us this morning about a kangaroo that was stuck in a fence in Sutherlands Creek. I’ve never seen a kangaroo so badly tangled before
A “Fence Hanger,” as they’re often called, usually ends up caught by one or both feet, resulting in injuries ranging from mild cuts to broken legs, hips, or even the spine, depending on how long they’ve been trapped. Fences with wire strands or barbed wire at the top are especially dangerous for kangaroos. They often can’t see the top wires, and as they leap, one or both of their feet slip between the strands, causing them to flip over and become entangled, most times tightly around the ankles/feet. This makes it almost impossible for them to escape.