She needed help …
During the winter months in North Queensland, Australia, wild animals often seek out warm spots to escape the cold. Recently, a possum found an unusual refuge in the wheel arch of a car, catching the eye of a concerned passerby.
Surprised by the sight, the onlooker contacted NQ Wildlife Care for assistance. Rescuers Keegan and Holly Toohey quickly responded to the call.
Upon arriving, Holly noticed that the possum was overheated and needed to be safely removed from the precarious spot.
Using a towel, Keegan carefully but securely handled the possum by her tail and shoulder blades while Holly worked to detach her claws from the wheel. Though the distressed possum attempted to escape, the seasoned rescuers remained calm.
“As an adult and very wild animal, she perceives us as a threat,” Holly explained to The Dodo. “She doesn’t realize we’re here to help, and that’s perfectly fine!”
The Tooheys swiftly transported the possum to a local clinic for a thorough examination by veterinarians.
Rescuers hope that the possum’s story serves as a reminder to be vigilant for struggling wildlife, particularly during the colder months. Holly urges anyone who encounters a wild animal in distress to reach out to their local wildlife rescue agency for guidance.
“I wish more people realized that all wildlife are sentient beings and deserve respect and care, including those that are injured,” Holly remarked. “They’re not pets and need specialized diets and care equipment.”