Lismore resident Chris was on his way to work when he hit a laughing kookaburra. He was on Pinchin Road between The Channon and Goolmangar and he stopped to see if the kookaburra was okay.

He couldn’t find it.

When Chris arrived at work in Goonellabah, he noticed the bird was caught in the grille of his car.

So, Chris called Wildlife Information and Rescue Emergency Service (WIRES) and WIRES volunteer Julie attended.

Julie saw that the unfortunate bird was caught by its right wing at an odd angle. 

The only way to get the bird free of the grille was by opening the bonnet of the car. 

Julie was then able to gently push the wing down and the bird was free of the grille. 

It was no joy ride for this kookaburra.

Julie found the kookaburra to be in surprisingly good condition. 

The bird was obviously in shock but there did not seem to be any broken bones or major feather damage. 

Julie brought the bird into care and allowed it to rest before a thorough check up.

No injuries were found, a flight test proved positive.

Chris was called later in the afternoon and he collected the kookaburra on his way home from work and released it back to the spot where it had unfortunately crossed the road in the morning.

Julie hopes next time the bird is in need to cross the road it will take a different and higher flight path.

“Thank you Chris for saving this lovely bird, for calling WIRES and taking the time to release it back into its home territory,” Julie said.

If you find an injured native animal, or one in trouble, call the WIRES Emergency Hotline on 66281898. You can also visit the website http://www.wiresnr.org

WIRES is a non-profit, Non Party Political organisation, where animal welfare always comes first. All carers are voluntary, and give their time and emotions free of charge.

Wires NR encompasses an 8800sq km area taking in the local government areas of Byron, Ballina, Richmond Valley,