Hunter Wildlife Rescue disaster co-ordinator Audrey Kossman said the organisation was busy treating wounded and displaced fauna after fire tore through 400ha of bush and grass near Kurri Kurri. 

She said there were some simple steps residents in rural areas could take to help native animals, including leaving water out above ground level and keeping cats inside at night while local wildlife are on the move after losing their habitats. 

Residents should also check their cars after fires, with several instances occurring Wednesday of possums and snakes taking shelter under cars and in engine blocks. Ms Kossman said that if residents see injured wildlife, they should contain it if possible before contacting Hunter Wildlife Rescue on 0418 628 483.