As the mercury drops and we all reach for the matches to light up our fireplaces, there’s a winter warning that every Australian should heed: your cosy hearth might be more inviting than you think—and not just to you!
Wildlife rescuers across the country are urging homeowners to check their fireplaces, chimneys, and wood piles before striking that first match, after a string of surprising animal encounters in recent weeks.
A possum’s plush pitstop
Take, for example, the recent escapade at a hotel in the ACT. In the early hours, a bold brushtail possum sauntered through the reception, much to the astonishment of the night staff.
According to ACT Wildlife rescuers Clare Wynter and Stephen Bartos, the furry guest was simply seeking a warm spot to snooze.
When gently encouraged to leave, the possum made a beeline for the wood pile stacked beside the foyer’s fireplace—a five-star possum hotel, if you ask us!
Fortunately, the rescue was drama-free. After removing a few logs, the team wrapped the healthy critter in a towel and popped him into a rescue basket.
He spent the day in safe hands before being released back into the wild that night—a crucial detail, as nocturnal animals are safest when released after dark, away from daytime predators.
Not just possums: A parade of unexpected guests
This isn’t an isolated incident. Wildlife carers from Wildcare Australia Inc in southeast Queensland recently found a ‘little’ possum perched atop kindling after it had climbed down a chimney. And it’s not just possums making themselves at home.
Kanyana Wildlife in Western Australia reports that every winter, they rescue a menagerie of native animals—from cockatoos and owls to bats and phascogales—all seeking shelter in what they think are safe hollows, but which turn out to be dangerous traps.
Sadly, not all these stories have happy endings. Many animals suffer burns, smoke inhalation, or become trapped, unable to escape once a fire is lit. The message from wildlife groups is clear: our homes, especially in winter, can become accidental hazards for our native fauna.
Why are animals moving in?
It’s not hard to see why. As the weather cools, animals look for warm, dry places to rest. Chimneys, flues, and wood piles are perfect—at least until the fire gets going. With natural tree hollows in short supply due to urban development, our homes are increasingly attractive to wildlife.
How to keep your home—and wildlife—safe
So, what can you do to protect both your home and the creatures that share our neighbourhoods? Here are some practical tips from the experts:
- Inspect before you ignite: Always check your fireplace, chimney, and wood pile before lighting a fire. Use a torch to look for any signs of animal life.
- Secure your chimney: Fit a wire mesh or chimney cap to prevent animals from entering. This simple step can save lives—both animal and human.
- Install nest boxes: If you have the space, consider putting up species-appropriate nest boxes in your garden. These provide a safe alternative for animals seeking shelter.
- Call for help: If you do find an animal, don’t try to remove it yourself. Contact your local wildlife rescue group for advice and assistance.
As Australians, we’re lucky to live alongside such unique and diverse wildlife. But with that privilege comes responsibility. By taking a few simple precautions, we can help ensure our winter warmth doesn’t come at the expense of our furry and feathered neighbours.
Stay warm, stay safe, and remember: before you light that fire, give a thought to who might already be enjoying your hearth.
Have you ever found a possum, bird, or other critter in your fireplace or chimney? What steps do you take to keep your home safe for wildlife during winter? Share your stories and tips in the comments below.
Also read: This growing landcare trend is saving wildlife—could your property help?
