Thursday, April 11, 2024

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Heartfelt Efforts To Save Injured Cockatoo

Burdekin native bird carer Matt Killeen has taken to social media to thank members of the public for their role in the rescue of an injured bird.
On Thursday, March 28, Matt assisted in the rescue of a Sulphur-crested Cockatoo that had hit a barbed wire fence and sustained “some terrible injuries.”
“Members of the public found the bird last night and kept it in a warm, dark, quiet room overnight,” he said.
“They contacted me via this page first thing this morning, I picked it up and rushed it to one of our fantastic local vets, unfortunately it couldn’t be saved, the injuries were too great.
“The people who found it did all the right things and together we were able to end this majestic bird’s suffering and help it pass peacefully.”
Matt’s love for bird photography led him to the world of wildlife care, a decision that has since blossomed into a heartwarming journey of nurturing and protecting the area's feathered inhabitants.
Becoming involved with NQ Wildlife Care through Facebook Group ‘Burdekin Birding’, Matt received training and lots of support to get started as a wildlife carer.
Despite the occasional sad ending, Matt said his work as a carer is incredibly rewarding.
“You’re helping the wildlife and you’re also helping members of the community who need assistance with injured or orphaned wildlife,” he said.
“There is a huge demand for native bird carers and other wildlife carers.”
Visit nqwildlife.org.au to find out more.

Burdekin native bird carer was contacted to assist an injured Sulphur-crested Cockatoo which unfortunately succumbed to its injuries. Photo supplied

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