FAWNA NSW president Meredith Ryan says it is normal for kangaroos to cool off in water in extreme heat conditions.
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“They are known for having a bit of a dabble in the surf,” she said.
Donna Waite captured photos of a kangaroo cooling off to beat the heat in the ocean on Monday, January 8.
The kangaroo was spotted while Donna was walking between Lake Cathie and Bonny Hills at about 6.30am.
Didee Murphy also took photos of a kangaroo cooling off in the river near Club North Haven on December 23 at about 8.30am.
Ms Ryan said kangaroos normally lick their forearms to regulate their body temperature in extreme heat conditions.
“Their blood vessels are located under the skin in their forearms,” she said.
“It’s a cooling mechanism.”
Since the beginning of summer 38 flying foxes have come into the care of FAWNA NSW after they suffered heat distress in areas including the Hunter, Sydney, Brombin and Wingham.
Ms Ryan said when the temperature reaches 41 degrees or over it can be detrimental to the flying foxes.
The volunteer group nurses flying foxes back to health through re-hydration, fluid balance and good nutrition.
The flying foxes are gradually integrated back into the wild through FAWNA’s coordinated release program so they can successfully join a colony.