Getting Started

I had often thought of becoming a wildlife warrior, after all, I'd had nearly a decade's experience  of fostering and rehabilitating dogs, cats n horses, and love anything with fur.  My property, Harrellie Haven, is named after my two dogs, Harry and Ellie.  Birthday gifts received from like minded friends and family, ensure I have the signs to prove it.

 One Saturday morning during my usual 6km bush walk with the pups,  I'd stopped to breathe and admire the scenery (an ongoing attempt to practise mindfulness and appreciation of the present moment), glanced at my feet, and there, curled in a circle, was a tiny baby possum.   Such a beautiful, perfect creature that never had the opportunity of life.  Awww... Not wanting the lil darling to be squished by dirt bikes or such, I found a nice big leaf to relocate it.  As I scooped... it moved! OMG not dead after all - but no chance of surviving if left here. Cradled gently in a tissue,  the tiny creature got rather active, searching for its mother's teat probably - the walk back to the car seemed much longer than 3kms, as it tickled and wriggled in the warmth of my hands. 

Next, I called the local wildlife sanctuary,  and the person who answered the phone told me they were having a celebration that day and couldn't help.  Incensed - I demanded to know what was worth celebrating more than saving a life...she told me to bring the baby in. Result!  Apparently they have a foster mother possum there who happily will provide nourishment to another young 'un.  Although I called a couple of times, I never found out what became of this little possum.

Anyhoo.... duly inspired,  I made contact with a wildlife rescue group and found they were hosting a beginners course the following weekend, I paid my fee, and went along excited to learn.