Tiny Survivor: Cocoa the Echidna Puggle Returns to the Wild Thanks to Australia Zoo Heroes
Kidaman Creek, QLD — A pint-sized echidna puggle named Cocoa is now safely back in the wild after a touching rescue, months of care, and a joyful release led by the Australia Zoo Rescue Unit and Wildlife Warriors Terri, Bindi, and Grace Irwin.
Cocoa’s journey began on a dangerous stretch of road where she was found alone, far too young to be without her mother. Concerned for her safety — and unsure if she’d been struck by a vehicle — rescuers rushed Cocoa to the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital.
From Roadside Rescue to Rewilding
Fortunately, Cocoa hadn’t sustained any injuries. But being so young and vulnerable, she required four months of round-the-clock care from a specialist wildlife carer. During this time, she grew strong and developed her signature echidna spines, preparing for life back in the wild.
After passing her final vet check-up, Cocoa was released at Kidaman Creek, a protected bushland area far from busy roads and full of natural foraging opportunities.
Her release marked a special family milestone — it was Grace Irwin’s first ever echidna release, joined by her mum Terri Irwin and sister Bindi.
“We are thrilled that sweet Cocoa is now back in her natural habitat, and to do it with the help of Grace and Bindi was a memory I’ll treasure,” said Terri.
Why Echidnas Like Cocoa Matter
Echidnas are monotremes — one of only two mammals in the world that lay eggs (the other being the platypus). They play a vital role in the ecosystem by aerating soil and controlling insect populations. Some echidnas can live up to 40 years, so every rescued individual contributes to long-term biodiversity.
“It’s crucial we rehabilitate echidnas like Cocoa, so they can go on to have lots of their own little puggles!” added Terri.
A Call for Road Awareness and Wildlife Protection
Cocoa’s story is a powerful reminder for drivers to stay alert in wildlife crossing zones. Many native animals are injured or killed on roads each year — and a single moment of caution could save a life.
The Australia Zoo Rescue Unit operates seven days a week, handling emergencies for everything from sea turtles and koalas to kangaroos and echidnas. Since opening in 2004, the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital has treated over 148,000 animals, making it one of the world’s busiest wildlife facilities.