Armadale Reptile and Wildlife Centre supervisor Kristy Gaikhorst said a member of the public recently brought in the injured bandicoot, which they discovered on a main highway.
‘The bandicoot was found in the middle of the road on a 38-degree day in full sun,’ she said.
‘She could not move herself off the road and after examination it was seen she had blood on her mouth ” evidence she was clipped by a car ” and was also in shock.’
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READ NOWThe bandicoot suffered heat stress and despite the efforts of staff at Armadale Reptile and Wildlife Centre, which included giving the bandicoot fluids, food, a wrapped ice block to sit next to, antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication, it died two days later.
The bandicoot was carrying a baby, which also died.
Ms Gaikhorst said bandicoots, parrots, cockatoos and kangaroos are all at increased risk of being hit by cars during summer.
‘It is the worst time of year for our wildlife due to lack of rain, which means lack of food and water.
‘They become desperate to come closer to human contact and urbanisation to find food and water.
‘Bandicoots love to forage alongside roads eating insects killed by vehicles.
‘Drivers need to slow down, be more aware and watch the roads as something could jump out at any moment during the evening, night and early morning.’
If an animal is hit, drivers need to stop and check whether it needs assistance, Ms Gaikhorst said.
‘Wildlife are merely trying to live around us, who are slowly destroying and encroaching on their homes.’