Managing wombat mange
Key points
- Many local wombats suffer from mange. Unless treated the infestation progresses and eventually the wombat is so severely compromised it dies a slow and agonising death.
- Mange can be successfully treated by placing medication on an ice-cream lid which forms a flap over a wombat's burrow. Re-application over a series of weeks is required.
What is mange?
Mange is not a disease but an infestation of the mange mite. The mites burrow under the skin where they deposit eggs. This causes intense discomfort for the wombat and over time, thick plaques that look like scabs and ridges form over its body. These plaques become dry and split open, then the wounds become infected and flyblown.
What to do with the body of a wombat that has died from mage
If a wombat dies from mange you need to manage the carcass properly by:
- burying it completely
- cremating it (burning the body)
- bagging and sealing it, then taking it to a vet for disposal (after contacting the vet first to check this is OK).
This is because the mites can live on the wombat carcass or surrounding ground for up to 3 weeks after the wombat dies, and can be spread by any animal investigating the dead body. Humans, pets and livestock can all be infested by mange in this 3-week period so it is really important that the infected carcasses are disposed of carefully.
Report a wombat with mange or get advice on managing it
Mange Management is a local community group based that services the shire and beyond.
Report a wombat with mange or other injury to Mange Management
More information
Visit the Mange Management website for info on topics including:
- mange and injury examples
- treatment methods
- success stories
- euthenasia.