The historic wildfires underway across Australia threaten the existence of some of the most iconic species on earth. The fires have already consumed thousands of homes over a total area nearly equal to the size of the state of Indiana. Scientist estimate over 1 billion animals may have perished to date, including tens of thousands of individual animals from already threatened and endangered species such as the koala.

Giving a firsthand account of the areas, species and critical habitats affected is Australian trainer, behavior consultant, and wildlife conservationist Jade Fountain.

Also joining us is James Biggs with an update on how member facilities of the Zoo and Aquarium Association of Australasia are working to rescue and rehabilitate injured and orphaned wildlife, with the goal to eventually return them in the coming months or years to recovered habitats. He describes ZAA's 3-phase plan for zoological facilities to address not only the immediate crisis but the long term care, assessment, and recovery of individuals, species, and habits, which in some cases may take several generations.

For information on how Australia's zoos and aquariums are responding to the fires or to contribute to efforts to help affected wildlife visit: https://www.zooaquarium.org.au/

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