Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital staff are marking the end of trauma season, after treating more than 5,400 wildlife patients in just six months, by celebrating the release of a special koala.
One of the trauma season patients, a koala joey named Alex, has been in the care of Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital and wildlife carers since October 2018 and is now ready to be released back into the wild.
Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital was opened by Steve and Terri Irwin in 2004, in memory of Steve’s mother Lyn. Now, the hospital has treated more than 83,000 native Australian patients.
Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital is one of the largest and busiest hospitals of its kind in the world. The Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital is reliant upon public donations, government and community support, together with funding from Australia Zoo, in order to help save the lives of thousands of native animals every year.
Ludovica Valenza, a Veterinarian at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, said the team was thrilled to be releasing Alex back into the wild. “Alex came to us after her mother was ill and sadly passed away. She was a really young joey that needed around the clock care and thanks to our team, plus wildlife carers, she has the skills needed to live a long and happy life in the wild.
“When a patient is with us for such a long time, we all get to know the patient and fall in love with them. There is nothing better than seeing them progress and then releasing them back into the wild where they belong.
“Our goal is always to release native animals back into their natural habitat, but rehabilitating sick or injured koalas is incredibly expensive. The treatment of just one koala alone can cost up to $7,500 for treatment.
“This isn’t a species we can save on our own. We have many wonderful sponsors that help us to rescue, rehabilitate and release animals back into the wild, like AAT Kings,” said Ludovica Valenza.
AAT Kings and TreadRight Foundation have helped Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital in their fight to save wildlife since 2014.
Matt Cameron-Smith, Managing Director of AAT Kings said they are proud to support Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital and contribute to the conservation of Australian wildlife. “AAT Kings saw a natural fit, sponsoring Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital. It allows us to contribute to and encourage sustainable tourism and care for our iconic native species that are cherished by travellers from all over the world.
“We know our donation makes a direct difference, but it really hits home seeing Alex come full circle, from being admitted to the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, to being released back into the wild,” said Matt.
“With increasing development and population growth, it’s never been more important to watch out for wildlife on our roads, keep domestic pets indoors at night and dispose of our rubbish and fishing line correctly,” Ludovica said.
If you see wildlife in need, the Australia Zoo Rescue Team can be contacted on 1300 369 652. Learn more about how you can help in the mission for conservation by visiting wildlifewarriors.org.au.
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