Currumbin Wildlife Hospital outlines lockdown activity as Zoos across the nation close

Most zoos and aquariums across Australia and New Zealand now temporarily closed to comply with restrictions to protect the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19).

Perth Zoo closed yesterday while Adelaide Zoo and Monarto Safari Park are closing their gates today.

However, while wildlife attractions may close to the public, animals still need to be fed and cared for while security and the facility must be maintained.

At the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital on the Gold Coast, management has issued a communication offering reassurance "that we are taking appropriate steps to ensure we can continue to provide the best care for all injured, sick and orphaned Australian native wildlife, while balancing the wellbeing of our Foundation and Hospital team.

"While we’re waiting to understand the full effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, (we can) reassure you that we are taking appropriate steps to ensure we can continue to provide the best care for all injured, sick and orphaned Australian native wildlife, while balancing the wellbeing of our Foundation and Hospital team."

Currumbin Wildlife Hospital is taking the following actions in relation to COVID-19:

• Its hospital team has been split into two teams that work together on certain days to ensure the hospital is fully staffed at all times.
• It remains open to receive wildlife every day with a process in place to receive animals through the main hospital entrance located at 27 Miller Drive. Animals will be retrieved in a safe manner for the well-being of all involved.
• Carers and local Vets have the option to meet virtually to discuss the treatment of native wildlife.
• It is encouraging in-person meetings to occur virtually.
• It has introduced virtual alternatives for planned events.
• It is reinforcing the Federal Government's 14-day self-isolation policy for any team member exposed to COVID-19 or feeling unwell.
• It has taken steps to ensure the Foundation team members can adequately work from home without disruption to our services.
• It will continue to update the world with its monthly newsletter, electronic messaging, updates on social media.

The statement adds "the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital will certainly face challenges ahead and we hope the community will continue to support our efforts to help save our Australian native wildlife.

"The animals need our help now more than ever as they continue to recover from the devastating bushfires, extended drought, and rain we have recently experienced."

Industry body the Zoo and Aquarium Association (ZAA) Australasia, has advised "most ZAA-accredited zoos and aquariums across Australasia are now temporarily closed to comply with government restrictions (and) whilst visitors will not be able to attend these sites, rest assured their dedicated teams continue to provide expert care to the animals.

"Some are still currently open and a good place to escape and enjoy nature and help minimise any stress or anxiety you may be feeling at the moment. They are outdoor venues with fresh air, space and sunshine, allowing for physical distancing. 

"However, if you are unwell, have any flu-like symptoms or have been asked to self-isolate, please follow advice from your relevant health authority to protect your health and the community’s health and stay at home. 

"The animals will all be waiting for you when you’re feeling better and some zoos are streaming them online for those confined to their homes.

"Our ZAA-accredited zoos and aquariums look forward to welcoming you to visit and reconnect with nature once it is safe to do."

For more information go to www.zooaquarium.org.au

Images courtesy of the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital Foundation/Facebook.