Mercedes' British racer Lewis Hamilton has pledged 500,000 U.S. dollars to "support the animals, wildlife volunteers and rural fire services" affected by the bushfire crisis in Australia.

The six-time Formula One world champion announced the donation on Twitter on Thursday, saying: "It breaks my heart to see the devastation the Australian bushfires are causing to people and animals across the country.

"I'm pledging 500,000 U.S. dollars to support the animals, wildlife volunteers and rural fire services. If you are able to, and you haven't already then you can donate too."

The 35-year-old Briton's message was accompanied by a video of a koala bear being rescued from flames.

Hamilton's donation will go to WIRES Wildlife Rescue, WWF Australia and the Rural Fire Service, BBC reported.

In a separate post on Instagram Hamilton wrote: "It saddens me deeply to know that over one billion animals in Australia died a painful death, no way out, not their fault."

"My love of animals is no secret and I can't help but grieve for the defenseless animals thought to have died so far, pushing certain species closer to extinction."

He urged Australia to "keep fighting."

"I'm lucky enough to visit Australia often and I know first-hand how beautiful the country is."

He said he had spoken to people "who are working at the heart of this and I'm filled with admiration for everything they are doing."

And he concluded his heartfelt message by imploring his 14 million Instagram followers and fans "to join me in thinking about the impact we are having on our planet".

"Let's work together to make small changes, and encourage our family and friends to do the same, so we can help shift the direction we're going in."

Earlier, Australia's Perth star Daniel Ricciardo, now racing in Renault after his Red Bull contract ended in 2018, also posted a video on Facebook to urge people to donate.

"This is an important message," Ricciardo said, adding "Pretty much the whole world is aware now. Australia is suffering with some severe, devastating bushfires."

"A couple of messages, firstly, donating, anybody who is kind enough to donate, please do. Secondly, please encourage others to donate."

The catastrophic bushfires have killed at least 26 people, destroyed more than 2,000 homes and scorched some eight million hectares (80,000 square kilometers) of land.

University of Sydney scientists estimate one billion animals have lost their lives in the fires. The figure includes mammals, birds and reptiles, but not frogs, insects or invertebrates.

Australia's tennis players, Nick Kyrgios, Ashleigh Barty, and cricketers are among many others to have pledged support to the crisis enveloping their country.

(With input from AFP)

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