AS the temperature steadily drops, the Centre for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (Crow) urges motorists to be aware that wildlife may seek warmth under or even inside vehicles.

Also read: Crow releases wildcat rescued from Kingsburgh

The non-profit organisation recently admitted two dassies, also known as rock hyraxes, one of which sustained injuries after seeking respite in a car engine bay.

Crow operations director, Clint Halkett-Siddall, said, “Cold weather snaps like we have experienced recently often drive small mammals like dassies, mongooses, and even domestic cats and cold-blooded reptiles to seek out warm, enclosed spaces such as engine compartments and wheel arches, where they are at serious risk of injury or death once the vehicle has started.”

He emphasised that it is especially important to be extra vigilant of such unaware hitchhikers in areas where humans and wildlife co-exist, including residential areas, nature-adjacent suburbs and holiday destinations situated in more rural environments.

“We are especially concerned during school holidays and long weekends, when families travel to rural or bushy areas. It is vital to check your car before you start it the next morning, particularly if you have parked overnight in or near a natural environment,” said Halkett-Siddall.

For more information about Crow’s work or to support its mission, visit www.crowkzn.co.za.

What can you do?

• Tap the bonnet before getting into the vehicle.
• Check under the vehicle and around the wheels.
• Be extra cautious when parked near bushy or rocky areas.
• If you hear unusual sounds or spot movement, do not start the engine.
• If you find a wild animal in your car engine, or anywhere else, do not attempt to remove it. Instead, contact Crow on 083 212 5281 or 031 462 1127.

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