This World Wildlife Day, Queensland Police Service (QPS) is joining paws with Australia Zoo and Wildlife Warriors to remind motorists that every decision made behind the wheel plays a critical role in protecting some of our most vulnerable road users.
Every day, Queenslanders share the road with precious 'little feet,' and this World Wildlife Day we want to remind road users that being vigilant and attentive whilst behind the wheel protects both our children and precious native wildlife.
In partnership with Australia Zoo and Wildlife Warriors, QPS reminds road users that little feet can move fast, and whether it is a joey hopping after mum or a child running ahead on the footpath, our smallest road users deserve our attention.
Chief Superintendent Mark Wheeler says both wildlife and children face similar risks on our road.
"Children and wildlife can be unpredictable – they can move suddenly and enter roadways without warning," Chief Superintendent Wheeler said.
"Drivers must remain alert and anticipate the unexpected, especially in and around school zones, footpaths, parks and rural areas," he said.
Vehicle strikes remain a major cause of injury to native animals, while low speed urban environments continue to present risks for young pedestrians.
"Something as simple as reducing your speed, scanning verges and footpaths, and eliminating distractions can prevent devastating outcomes," Chief Superintendent Wheeler said.
Marking World Wildlife Day, QPS and Australia Zoo are highlighting the shared responsibility of protecting wildlife and young, vulnerable road users.
Wildlife conservationist Bindi Irwin said the collaboration reinforces the intrinsic link between road safety and conservation.
"Every year, we see an influx of patients who sustain life-threatening injuries from vehicle strikes, requiring urgent treatment and around-the-clock care at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital," Bindi said.
"We are incredibly grateful for our state-of-the-art rehabilitation facility, which gives native wildlife injured on the road a second chance at survival." Bindi said.
"Queensland is home to an array of stunning native wildlife, and the shared responsibility of protecting our precious animals through safe road behaviours is critical."
September through to February is when most Queenslanders are out enjoying all that this great state has to offer; however, it is also a time when most wildlife is on the move.
This period is known as trauma season at Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, when animals that should be breeding, out exploring, finding food and water sources, and enjoying the sunshine are subjected to a higher number of road strikes.
It's also the time of year when the Australia Zoo wildlife hospital is at its busiest, the last season recording almost 2000 more patients than the previous season.
This World Wildlife Day, slow down, be alert and remember, road safety starts with you.
The Queensland Police Service is committed to reducing the number of lives lost on our roads.
Every choice you make behind the wheel, matters. Driving under the influence, speeding, driving distracted or not wearing a seatbelt puts your life – and the lives of others – at serious risk. These dangerous behaviours will not be tolerated. Queenslanders can expect police – anywhere, anytime.
Safer roads start with you.
