Treating patients @Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital

Lil Darlin the Common Brushtail Possum

Lil Darlin the brushtail possum joey was found clinging to her mother’s body after she had been sadly poisoned by rat bait at a local school. A specialised wildlife carer noticed that the orphaned joey was in poor condition and brought her to the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital.

Poor Lil Darlin was lethargic, dehydrated and her gums were pale when she arrived at the Wildlife Hospital. A thorough examination and x-rays by Dr Danny confirmed that she was suffering anaemia from rat bait toxicity, as a result of drinking her mother’s milk after she had been poisoned.

Thankfully, Dr Danny was able to perform a blood transfusion to replenish the red blood cells in her system, before administering fluids and transferring her to a humidicrib in the nursery, for close observation.

After one week at the Wildlife Hospital, Lil Darlin’s conditioned had improved immensely; the colour had returned to her gums and she was bright and responsive, a good sign that her red blood cell count had returned to normal. Lil Darlin was given the all clear to continue her rehabilitation with a specialised wildlife carer. Once she is fully grown she will be able to return to life in the wild.

Thanks to your suypport, orphans like Lil Darlin are given a fighting chance to make it to adulthood.