After

six months of care with me, Mirrhi has moved to a rehabilitation centre on the NSW south

coast to prepare her for release back into the

wild.

It

seems very strange not having her around anymore. This is the longest period

I’ve ever handraised a baby animal and during this time I developed a very

special bond with her. When I drive home at night I sometimes forget that she’s

not in the car with me. I’ll hear a noise and think it’s her scratching or

something!It

was difficult saying goodbye, but it is an important step as she graduates to

becoming a wild wombat. The centre is a soft release site where she’ll be for

up to 12 months. When she’s ready, Mirrhi will be able to come and go as she

gradually makes her way back to the wild.

When

we arrived at the centre, the carer picked Mirrhi up for a cuddle to say

‘hello’ and she took an instantly liking to her new surrogate mum, falling

asleep in her arms. She also appears to be very keen about her new

surroundings, especially the outdoor area where she can dig and bulldoze.

There’s

another young wombat at the centre too called “Bonnie”. The two at the start

weren’t that keen on each other, hiding in separate burrows, but now they’re

good mates. In fact, the two cuddle up with each other!

It’s

incredibility rewarding to know that my work at the Zoo has helped give Mirrhi

a second chance. Before she leaves the shelter forever, I’ll return to say the

goodbye.You

can help animals just like Mirrhi by donating to our Wildlife Hospital

Appeal today.