Thanks Eastern Hills Scouts!

 

Eastern Hills Scouts recently joined us for a special tour and presented the Sanctuary with some much needed possum nest boxes.

These possum homes will provide a safe, warm spot for our rehabilitated young possums. Thank you scouts for your efforts!

 

 

Baby Alf

 

Baby Alf arrived in early August after falling from the top of a tall palm tree. Sadly, he was unable to be reunited with his mother and was delivered to the Sanctuary weighing in at a tiny 162g. 

 

 

Alf was not a fan of milk formula during his first week in care, and every three hours needed a great deal of persuasion to drink.  A visit to see Dr Tim, our wildlife veterinarian, ruled out any health concerns and x-rays reassured us that Alf had no bone breaks despite his fall. 

 After three weeks, little Alf developed a hefty appetite, taking a whole 10ml of formula at each feed and enjoying rose petals and leaf tips. Alf is now over double his weight at admission and loves his milk and all types of native plant treats. 

Alf is becoming good at climbing and jumping, although his favourite place is his fleecy pouch, clinging to his teddy.  

Soon Alf will be graduating to a larger cage, in readiness for a transition to outdoor life. We hope Alf continues to do well and can rejoin his wild possum friends in the forest very soon!

 

 

New Arrival at PVAS - Mia Possum

 By Chris R.

Little Mia the possum arrived in the Valley in mid-winter. She was raised by one of the amazing rehabilitators at WA Wildlife, and is very fond of people. A soft release of Mia on site at WA Wildlife saw her returning to people for attention, which was a little concerning for clinic staff, so it was decided Mia could come to the Valley for a soft release. Here she could safely roam around the buildings without fear of vehicles.  

On a sunny Sunday, a team of WA Wildlife volunteers bundled up Mia, along with her soft release aviary, and built her new soft-release home amongst the marri trees. Mia’s nest box was popped in, along with lots of branches and treats, so she could settle before being given access to the outside forest.

Mia is doing really well in the Valley, returning for dinner and attention whenever she wishes. Her favourite treats - blueberries and almonds - are sometimes hidden in nearby tree foliage, which she enjoys seeking out. Stay safe Mia – you are a special little possum!

 

 

Water for Wildlife

 

Temperatures in WA have been above 40C often this summer, and it’s been many weeks since even a sprinkle of rain has reached the Sanctuary. The forest is parched and the forecast tells of more hot, dry conditions ahead

While we are busy ensuring our rescued residents are as cool and hydrated as possible, supporting the wildlife through the summery conditions is also critical. Bird baths, sprinklers and misters are easily organised and provide welcome relief for the many native birds, reptiles and mammals who call the Valley home. These are placed in various safe locations, providing choice for all kinds and sizes of fauna - an added stick or rock protects smaller creatures from becoming stuck or drowning.

No matter where you live, providing a safe drinking area for wildlife will be so appreciated in the coming weeks. A simple Tupperware container with a brick may save more lives than you think

Pictured: Bobbi enjoying a refreshing drink - how’s that little lapping tongue!