As online trends continue to evolve, not everything that gains popularity is as harmless as it seems.

Some well-meaning actions can have unexpected effects, especially concerning nature.

A recent viral practice has sparked concern, raising questions about its impact on local wildlife.


Keith Porteous, affectionately known as The Wildlife Rescuer online, has spoken out about the dangers of this trend.

In an interview, Keith shared distressing images of a bird that had become badly entangled in human hair and suffered visible injuries.

'I rescue all animals, but a huge amount of my work is birds entangled in fishing line, string, twine, plastics and hair,' he said.


'I come across hair quite often, and it is extremely damaging because it is fine and strong. Often, it isn’t spotted, and the bird’s issue may go unnoticed. But it's as dangerous as line or string in terms of poor outcomes.'

While strong and durable, human hair is not a suitable material for bird nests.

Its delicate yet robust nature makes it a hazard, akin to a fishing line or string, which can lead to entanglement, injury, and even death among birds and other small animals.

The Sunshine Coast local has seen firsthand the damage caused by hair and other man-made materials, and he's urging the public to reconsider this practice.


It's not just the physical threat of entanglement that's a concern.

The chemicals often found in our hair from shampoos, dyes, and treatments can be toxic to wildlife.

These substances can seep into the environment, contaminating water and soil and threatening local ecosystems.

So, what can we do to prevent this harm? Simply dispose of human hair properly.

By ensuring that our hair doesn't end up in the wild, we can help protect the animals that rely on natural materials for survival.

At the Seniors Discount Club, we understand the desire to connect with nature and contribute positively to our environment.


However, it's essential to stay informed and consider the potential impact of our actions.

Let's continue to love and protect Australia's weird and wonderful wildlife by making conscious choices that support their well-being.


Have you encountered any other well-meaning trends that might be causing unintended harm? Let's open up a dialogue and learn from each other, ensuring our efforts to help the environment are genuinely beneficial.