Rescued baby platypus returned to the wild

An injured baby platypus has been released into the wild, after being nursed back to health by staff at the David Fleay Wildlife Park on the Gold Coast. 

Environment Minister Steven Miles congratulated ranger-in-charge Jacqui Seal who has nursed the platypus back to health. 

“This was a labour of love for Jacqui,” Dr Miles said. 

“This is the second time Jacqui has nursed a platypus back to health and I congratulate her for her dedication. 

“Jacqui has previously nursed a platypus back to health when she helped rehabilitate the park’s resident platypus “Wally”. 

“Dr David Fleay was an Australian conservationist, and the first person to successfully breed platypus in captivity. 

“It’s wonderful that Jacqui has been able to continue his legacy with her work at the park,” he said. 

The female platypus was found under-nourished and badly injured in Deception Bay earlier this year by a member of the public, who contacted the RSPCA. 

Ms Seal said returning the platypus to full health had been a rewarding task. 

“When she was found she was about 4 or 5 months old, very underweight, and covered in injuries from being attacked by crows,” Ms Seal said. 

“After a few months of night feeding, and a diet of worms and crayfish, she’s been fed right up and the veterinarian has declared she is robust enough to make it on her own. 

“It’s a really great feeling to be able to release a wild animal back into its natural environment, and know that we’ve been able to give it a fighting chance,” she said. 

Dr Miles said platypus could be spotted across much of Queensland’s coastal area. 

“I encourage people to keep an eye out next time they’re in a National Park, or go and spend the day at Fleays with Ranger Jacqui and Wally,” he said. 

ENDS

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