Wombats dying in their dozens because of mange mite infestations can be saved with free treatment kits, animal welfare groups say.
Mange mites burrow into wombat skin and compromise the health and immune system of the animals by causing them to itch uncontrollably.
Wombat Mange Management Victoria and the Macedon Ranges Wildlife Network are promoting user-friendly and non-invasive burrow flaps to treat mange-infested wombats.
Network carer Linda Healy said the kits were “by far” the most user-friendly and the most effective treatment for the condition.
“Because wombats are notoriously shy, it’s really hard to treat large numbers,” she said.
“By setting up this non-invasive treatment, the wombat doesn’t even know it’s being treated so it’s not feeling stressed.”
Residents are advised to suspend the flaps from a simple wire frame at the entrance of a burrow.
As the wombat enters or leaves, a solution trickles down the animal’s back, which kills the mites.
Tell-tale signs of affected wombats are hair loss and scabby fur. Animals “emitting a putrid dead smell” and that are flyblown beyond help must be euthanised.
Mange infestation seems to be a seasonal problem, but Ms Healy said it was hard to know why some wombats were prone to the mite and others weren’t.
“There are more issues for wombats with mange in warmer months,” she said.
To obtain a treatment kit, visit www.mangemanagement.org.au or call Ms Healy on 0438 363 242 for assistance.
