Our Work

Dedicated care for native wildlife

Margaret River Wildlife Hospital provides dedicated veterinary care for sick, injured and displaced native wildlife, free of charge.

Working alongside wildlife rescuers, rehabilitators and local vets, we help animals receive the treatment they need and support
their recovery towards release back into the wild.

Together, we are strengthening the region’s ability to respond to wildlife emergencies and care for the native species that make our south-west so special.

Click here for the latest admission statistics for Margaret River Wildlife Hospital.

Black-and-white bird standing in a towel-lined enclosure beside blue water and food dishes

Wildlife rescue and treatment

When wildlife is injured or unwell, professional assessment helps determine the care it needs.

Our hospital provides specialist veterinary care for sick, injured and orphaned native animals
and works with rescuers and rehabilitators who bring them to treatment.

If you find wildlife in need, seek advice before handling or transporting it. Our Wildlife Emergency page explains where to start.

Black swan standing beside a water tray indoors

Rehabilitation and release

Veterinary treatment is one part of a wildlife patient’s recovery. Animals may also need rehabilitation before they can return to the wild. We will work with the region’s wildlife rehabilitation network to support that journey, with decisions guided by the animal’s welfare and needs.

The hospital complements WA Wildlife’s Busselton rehabilitation facility, helping connect veterinary treatment with the next stages of care.

Barn owl spreading its wings indoors, perched above a bright pink leg band.

Emergency wildlife response

Wildlife emergencies can place sudden pressure on local carers and services.

The Margaret River Wildlife Hospital increases regional treatment capacity and support coordinated responses with wildlife organisations and government agencies.

Our dedicated wildlife transport vehicle helps animals access the care they need. We can collect injured wildlife from veterinary clinics and wildlife rescuers, bring animals in rehabilitation to the hospital for veterinary check-ups, and return them to their carers afterwards.

A bandaged monitor lizard rests on towels in a bathtub beside bowls of chopped vegetables.

Wildlife disease and biosecurity

Protecting patients, people and other wildlife will be central to hospital care. The Margaret River Wildlife Hospital supports WA’s bird flu response
and works closely with the relevant government agencies.

Public reporting of sick or dead wildlife can help authorities identify and respond to disease concerns.

For sick or dead birds and marine mammals, avoid contact and report to 1800 675 888.

Visit our Wildlife Emergency page for guidance and links to current official advice.

Conservation and research

Dedicated care for individual animals also strengthens the support available to native wildlife, including threatened species.

We will share updates on approved conservation and research collaborations as they develop.

X-ray of a small rodent, likely a rat, lying on its back
Small sea turtle hatchling resting on blue-gloved hands

Community Education

Knowing when wildlife needs help, who to call and how to reduce everyday risks can make a difference.

We will share practical advice on living alongside wildlife, from road awareness and responsible pet care to seasonal hazards.