Kindness and caring for animals in need
A Cornubia mum with a passion for saving wildlife is one of the many latest recipients of a Logan City Council EnviroGrant.
Karen Massingham says she is committed every day to protecting injured and orphaned wildlife to ensure our native species are still around to be enjoyed by future generations.
Although her kindness and care extends to any injured animal, Karen focuses mostly on raising orphaned ringtail possum joeys, which have a more specialised diet and require close attention to keep alive.
Last year alone, in conjunction with Wildlife Rescue Queensland and other agencies, Karen saved more than 50 young ringtails and estimates she has saved ‘hundreds’ of animals since first becoming involved in wildlife rescue 26 years ago.
To continue her amazing work, Karen received a $1,500 EnviroGrant, funded through the Environment Levy which is included in Council rates notices.
‘The grant enables me to do this important work with animals without worrying about the financial side of things, like the rising cost of food and transport,’ Karen says.
‘This is a passion of mine and I feel like each time an animal is saved and returned to its proper habitat, I am giving something back to our environment and to those in our community who enjoy our natural surrounds so much.’
Division 10 Council Miriam Stemp says the work done by Karen and other local wildlife rescuers and carers is becoming increasingly important.
‘Our city growth and expanding urban footprint is putting more pressure on natural habitats and the many different native species that live there,’ Cr Stemp says.
‘Whether on a roadside or in your backyard, I urge anyone who sees an injured or sick native animal or bird to act swiftly in contacting the experts to give the creatures the best possible chance of survival.’
Wildlife rescue numbers to keep handy include:
- Wildlife Rescue Queensland Rescue Hotline 0478 901 801
- RSPCA Logan Wildlife Ambulance on 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625)
- Australian Wildlife Hospital emergency hotline 1300 369 652
- Wildcare on 5527 2444
Photo at top: From left: Cr Stemp and Cornubia’s Karen Massingham comfort some rescued possum joeys.
