While the Turnbull government hands out billions of dollars to help farmers feed their sheep and cattle spare a thought for our native wildlife. Many species do it very tough in severe droughts. Because of the mistaken belief that kangaroos compete with livestock for feed, this iconic animal found only in Australia is shot at a greater rate during droughts.
Then there is increased road kill as kangaroos gather along road verges where run off can result in greener feed. Wildlife carers are left to deal with the carnage. They are on the front line caring for injured animals and abandoned joeys.
The ABC gives a fair rundown here of the pressures the drought inflicts on this unique species.
This is what I wrote about the treatment of kangaroos after my visit to the European Union for the launch of “Kangaroo: a love-hate story”.
Lee Rhiannon 