WIRES issues native wildlife alert ahead of NYE fireworks
As we welcome in 2026, WIRES is asking the public to please report any displaced native wildlife following NYE fireworks displays.
December 2025 media release from WIRES
As we welcome in 2026, WIRES is asking the public to please report any displaced native wildlife following NYE fireworks displays.
Just as pet dogs and cats react to fireworks, native animals also often take fright and become disoriented as they try to escape the noise and bright lights.
Frightened native animals can often shelter in unusual places in or around the home such as under eaves, on verandas, under the house, inside sheds and garages. They can also flee across roads and highways without warming to escape the noise so motorists are advised to please be extra cautious.
Wildlife such as possums and gliders can dislodge their joeys (known as back-riders’) if panicked when they run through thick undergrowth or through people’s gardens.
Juvenile birds may also be found on the ground and volunteers may be able to reunite them with their parents or otherwise bring them into care. If you suspect an animal is orphaned, distressed or displaced please keep pets contained and away from the animal and call WIRES or your nearest wildlife rescue organisation for advice on what to do and not further stress the animal.
“New Year’s Eve is an evening of celebration for us to all enjoy,” said WIRES CEO Leanne Taylor. “We simply ask the public to please keep an eye out and report any displaced or distressed native wildlife on the night itself and the days following. At this time we also thank all the wonderful wildlife volunteers and supporters for all their efforts in 2025 to ensure native animals needing help are rescued, rehabilitated and returned to the wild.”
The WIRES Rescue Office operates 24/7 on 1300 094 737 or you can report online.
