Conservation groups appeals for mittens for koalas with burned paws

Conservation groups have appealed for cotton mittens for koalas (Getty Images)

Conservation groups have appealed for people to make cotton mittens for koalas whose paws were burned in major wildfires in Australia.

The International Fund for Animal Welfare published a pattern to make the mittens on its Facebook page, saying: “Koalas urgently need your help.”

“We may see more koalas coming into the care of wildlife groups for treatment of burns. We urgently need mittens made from 100 per cent cotton sheets or tea towels to protect injured paws,” it said. “Please cut out our pattern and get your friends to get sewing too.”

It said it would pass the mittens to vets and other groups looking after the injured animals.

The Australian Marine Wildlife Research & Rescue Organisation (AMWRRO) also issued an appeal for donations to help look after injured koalas.

It published a series of photographs showing koalas with badly burned feet, which had to be scrubbed clean then dressed.

One koala, named Jeremy by the group’s staff, was pictured lying on some towels with a four paws being bathed in liquid.

“Jeremy has been assessed and all four paws treated for second-degree partial thickness burns, he is doing very well and is in great spirits,” it said in a later update.

However another koala who was rescued had to be put to sleep, AMWRRA said. “This young female was also a mother who had lost her pouch young whilst trying to beat the flames; the joey unable to be found on site,” it said.