Chickpeas!

By Chris R.

Given the growing number of domestic animals without safe, caring homes, the Sanctuary generally does not support the breeding of animals. It appears that Jewel Peahen is unaware of our breeding stance, however, strategically hiding a nest amongst a grove of apple trees in the Sanctuary orchard!

The first sign of Jewel’s nesting activity was on Tuesday morning, when she surprised one of the volunteers by emerging from the undergrowth with two very sweet, and very fluffy, newly hatched youngsters!

Jewel is an amazing mum, showing her peachicks (or is that ‘chickpeas'?!) how to scratch and forage for food, and where the best treats can be found. 

Welcome to the Sanctuary little ones - we hope you have a happy life here! 

 

 

New Arrivals at PVAS

 By Chris R.

Eve (Evan) the Peachick

 Late on Christmas Eve we were excited to see Chloe Peahen with a surprise new family member in the orchard! The tiny new arrival appeared to have hatched earlier that day and was closely following his/her very protective Mum around the fruit trees. While we do not endorse breeding of animals at the Sanctuary given the need of so many, we are so happy for Chloe and will look forward to watching her raise her new arrival in the safety of the Sanctuary.  

At present we aren’t certain of the sex of the baby, so at this stage, the little one is know as Eve/Evan. Just look at that little tail!

Sarge the Goat

In late spring we were contacted about a large, friendly goat who was experiencing mobility issues after falling from a trampoline as a youngster. Uncertain of the extent of the injuries described, we agreed that the big fellow be surrendered to the Valley, in the hope that we could manage his health issues as needed. 

Upon arrival, the now named ‘Sarge’ was a handsome, hairy, gentle giant. Although he was understandably wary of his new surrounds, we were pleasantly surprised to find that Sarge was able to walk and run, coping with his past injuries surprisingly well.  

Dr Herb, from Farm Animal Services at Murdoch, gave Sarge a health check and confirmed that while his spine is fused, the remaining damage shouldn’t hold him back from a comfortable and happy life at the Sanctuary. Once out of quarantine, Sarge was trialled with the goat and ram bachelors, where he fits in beautifully, loving life with his new paddock mates in the Valley of Hope.

 

 

The Peacocks of Possum Valley

By Chris R.

At the end of summer each year, the Valley’s peacocks moult their feathers, including their spectacular tail plumage. The moulting process occurs after the mating season, allowing enough time, about seven months, to regrow feathers longer and fuller before the next mating season. We collect the many feathers that are lost and use them as decorations and gifts where possible.  

Gus

Peacock feathers have been collected for tens of thousands of years. Many cultures believe the feathers have healing properties. Peacock feathers are said to carry spiritual healing energy that can be used to assist people seeking balance and harmony in their lives. The peacock is also considered to be a bird of protection and safe guarding. Lore states that to have a peacock feather within the home helps to safeguard the energy of the environment.  

Beautiful table display featuring a collected peacock feather

The Valley is home to five peacocks – Gus, Chloe and their ‘pea-teen’ children. The peacock family do a great job keeping the orchard weed and pest free and they enjoy spent fruit. They are also excellent at alerting us to any dangers in the Valley. No fox or bird of prey goes unnoticed by these vocal sentinels, day or night. The Pea Family are ever vigilant of impending threats.

One of the Valley's camouflaged pea chicks