Wildlife

Wombat Welfare and Mange

Sarcoptic mange is devastating wombat populations across Australia, causing slow, painful deaths that can be treated with simple interventions.

Key Facts

Sarcoptic mange causes extreme itching, hair loss, and eventual death in wombats
Mange is estimated to affect up to 60% of bare-nosed wombats in some areas
Treatment involves flap-access burrow entrance applicators
Mange-affected wombats often live for months in significant suffering
The disease was introduced through sheep and has spread throughout wombat range

Welfare Considerations

Mange-affected wombats suffer intensely from the mite infestation causing relentless itching, open sores, blindness, and extreme debilitation before death. The disease takes months to kill, meaning each individual experiences prolonged suffering. Simple flap applicators attached to burrow entrances that apply treatment as wombats exit are highly effective and low-cost.

What You Can Do

Support Mange Management wombat treatment programs in Australia
Donate to wombat rescue organizations
Report mange-affected wombats to local wildlife rescue groups
Spread awareness about the mange applicator treatment program