Worried about wombats?

SEPTEMBER 2017 | Hayley Manning

SOME MAY not realise that wombats in Meander Valley are affected by sarcoptic mange. While wombats are not listed as threatened, there are significant population declines in some areas of Tasmania and on the mainland.

According to the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment (DPIPWE), consultant, Ben Davidson, mange has been present over many decades in Tasmania but research and monitoring are now underway to determine how wombats became infected and why there are more losses in some areas than others.

Tasmanian Wildlife Rehabilitation Council President, Oma Rodger, said the mange – caused by the sarcoptes mite is a “highly contagious and agonising condition” that can be treated depending on the presentation of the wombat.

Oma said teams around Tasmania have applied for treatment kits that work by administering a dose onto the wombat’s skin as it enters the active burrow over a twelve week period.

Mr Davidson said in addition to the kits, members of the public can also help by driving carefully and preventing their dogs roaming in wombat areas; while farmers can install ‘wombat gates’ that allow the wombat to pass through from one area to another without damaging fences.

To start a wombat team in the Deloraine area please contact Oma on 6429 3348 to discuss the State and Commonwealth treatment permit and all other start-up information.

To report injured or mange affected wombats call DPIPWE on 6165 4305.