A Tasmanian wildlife sanctuary has issued an urgent plea for hay to feed its “hungry mob” of kangaroos as the state’s dry spell continues.
Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, located north of Hobart, says its hay stocks are running low due to the recent dry weather and failed grass crops.
“It’s becoming tricky to find enough hay to keep these roos happy and they’re munching through the last of our supplies,” the sanctuary said on social media.
“If you have hay available for sale anywhere in Tasmania, or know of somewhere to buy hay, please email us.”
The dry conditions have also impacted local farmers, prompting the state government to confirm an additional $4.8 million in support last week.
Minister for Primary Industries and Water Jane Howlett said the funding is needed despite recent rainfall “that certainly hasn’t broken the drought”.
“We need many, many days of rain and then of course we need spring and some warmer weather to encourage growth in our soil,” she said.
“Our farmers have had really, really tough challenges.”
Earlier this month, the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) reported that June rainfall deficiencies were “severe” in most of Tasmania, with soil also becoming drier.
“Rainfall is likely (60 to 80% chance) to be below average for western facing parts of coastal south-west Western Australia, Victoria and Tasmania, particularly during July,” the BOM said.
