Disaster Response
Cyclone Narelle threatens wildlife in northern Australia
Cyclone Narelle threatens wildlife in northern Australia
March 19, 2026
Record flooding across northern Australia is isolating communities, displacing wildlife, and cutting off wildlife carers from critical supplies—now compounded by category 5 Cyclone Narelle making landfall this week.
Heavy rainfall from two tropical low-pressure systems has already pushed rivers in the Northern Territory and north Queensland to record or near-record levels, closing roads and leaving some rescuers stranded with animals in their care. With the cyclone expected to bring destructive winds and further flooding, IFAW is working alongside trusted local partners to support wildlife responders and prepare for what comes next.
Far North Queensland Wildlife Rescue sees an influx of animals as Cyclone Narelle approaches Far North Queensland Wildlife Rescue
For wildlife, the impacts are immediate. Floodwaters force animals from their habitats, separate mothers from their young, and leave already overwhelmed rescue networks caring for an influx of displaced animals.
Over recent weeks, we’ve already been responding to the impacts of these floods. With areas still underwater, ground saturated, and communities isolated, the approaching cyclone is expected to significantly worsen conditions for both animals and the people working to protect them.
Flying Fox from a previous disaster reponse in Queensland © Dave Pinson
In Queensland, wildlife rescue organisations are already responding to a growing number of flood-displaced animals. The Agile Project, a long-time IFAW partner, requested urgent supplies including milk formula and enclosure equipment upgrades as they care for more than 100 orphaned joeys.
Further north, Far North Queensland Wildlife Rescue is also seeing an influx of animals arriving in care. We are providing food supplies to support this surge and remains in close contact with the team to expand support as needs evolve, particularly as the cyclone approaches.
As the Cyclone Narelle approaches, preparations are intensifying across both regions. In the Northern Territory, National Parks rangers are monitoring bat colonies in high-risk areas, while a local wildlife veterinary hospital that previously partnered with IFAW is on standby to triage injured animals. Across Queensland, we remain in close contact with partners to assess needs in real time and provide additional support as conditions worsen.
Standing with wildlife rescuers
When disasters strike, local wildlife carers and rescuers are often the first to respond to animals in danger. Through emergency grants, critical supplies, and long-standing partnerships, IFAW helps ensure these frontline responders have the resources they need to act quickly and care for animals safely.
As the situation continues to intensify across northern Australia, IFAW will remain in close contact with partners on the ground and provide additional support where it is needed most.
Support from around the world makes this rapid response possible, helping wildlife rescuers care for animals when they need it most and ensuring help can reach wildlife quickly when disasters strike.
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