Wombat mange is a highly contagious condition that can cause a slow and painful death to affected wombats if left untreated. The condition is caused by a sarcoptic mite, sarcoptes scabiei, which burrow into the skin, causing intense itching and skin irritation leading to the wombat scratching itself rigorously, resulting in open wounds, infection, fly strike in summer, dehydration, loss of body condition, hypothermia and pneumonia in winter.
Thankfully, mange is entirely treatable and reversible by using topical treatments through installing burrow flaps with treatment in mange-affected areas or using direct pour on to the back of the wombat every 5-7 days for 4 weeks. With thanks to the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) and Foundation for National Parks & Wildlife (FNPW) who have provided a targeted funding grant to Wildcare Queanbeyan, we are able to purchase and use the approved chemicals and equipment needed to treat mange in free-living wombats.
If you see a wombat with:
- Missing fur and scabs on the sides of its body and face
- Out during the daytime
- Appears oblivious to your presence
please take a photo if possible and contact the 24/7 Wildcare Helpline on (02) 6299 1966.
If you'd like to assist with the treatment of mange affected wombats or join the Wombat Mange team, call our 24/7 Wildcare Helpline and ask to speak with the Wombat Mange coordinator, or email mange@wildcare.com.au
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