Crow urges motorists to do engine checks for wildlife safety
As winter approaches, Crow is urging motorists to check their vehicles for small animals seeking warmth and shelter under their vehicles.
AS temperatures decrease throughout KZN, the Centre for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (Crow) is calling on motorists to check under their vehicles and engine prior to revving up their motors, as small wild animals seek warmth and shelter overnight during the colder months.
Also read: Help Crow build new stabilisation centre for wildlife
The appeal comes after two dassies (rock hyraxes) were recently taken in by Crow, one of which was injured after being trapped in a car engine. The incident is part of a distressing trend that could be avoided with a few simple checks.
“Cold weather snaps like we have experienced recently often drive small mammals like dassies, mongooses, and even domestic cats and 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 is started,” said Crow’s director Clint Halkett-Siddall.
He also called for caution, particularly where people and wild animals coexist, such as residential estates, suburbs near nature reserves and rural tourist areas.
“We understand that most people are completely unaware they could be harbouring a small animal under the hood. But the reality is that a warm engine can be a fatal trap for creatures like dassies,” said Halkett-Siddall.
Tips:
Crow is urging motorists to take a few simple precautions before starting their vehicles:
- 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, don’t start the engine.
Motorists who encounter any animal in the car engine or anywhere else, are encouraged to not to attempt to get rid of it themselves. They should instead call Crow on 083 212 5281 or 031 462 1127.
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