11 Jan Nature’s Cry for help – Australia’s Wildfires

A staggering 1 billion animals are estimated dead in Australia’s fires. It is the biggest loss of wildlife diversity in recent history and the images broadcasted have broken our heart. There are no words left to describe the agony of what is happening and the loss will change Australia’s landscape and biodiversity for years to come. Fire Fighters and volunteers have lost their lives. People are losing their homes and loved ones. Over 12 millions of acres of land have burned and 350 million tons of CO2 released into the air. Millions are breathing in air that is choking and deadly.

The bushfires, exacerbated by climate change, have since September swept through vast swathes of Australia. First, the 480 million number applied to NSW alone, but the bushfires have since spread to the state of Victoria. Second, the number included mammals, birds, and reptiles, but did not include insects, bats, or frogs.  Animals that live in niche environments and have smaller populations may have been wiped out entirely; these include the eastern bristlebird, the mountain pygmy possum and the corroboree frog. An estimated 25.000 koalas have also died from the fires, ecologists say. Many more are expected to die due to starvation or lack of shelter. WWF is currently collecting donations to restore koala habitats.

Regardless of the exact numbers, this is a crisis for biodiversity in Australia, home to some of Earth’s most distinctive animals, like marsupials. Around 244 species of mammals are found here only. 

The tragedy in Australia is our own doing. Perhaps the most devastating fact is our direct contribution to destroying our planet. For now, if you want to help, if you can help, pray for Australia, donate and become a Koala protector. Every little bit counts.