Meet Brooks
In the world of wildlife rescue, every animal has its own unique story, and Brooks's is one that shines brightly in my heart. On 22 April 2020, a tiny brushtail possum weighing just 564 grams came into my care. He was the first brush tail possum I had ever cared for, and what a joy it was to be his Mumma. Raising Brooks was an absolute delight, filled with precious moments that I will cherish forever.
Brooks's journey took a dramatic turn when a member of the public, decided him and his Mumma were a nuisance, trapped them and released them into the bush. Terrified, Mumma raced off into the wild, leaving little Brooks behind. He fell off her back and was unable to keep up with his frantic Mum. Thankfully, a kind-hearted and compassionate person witnessed the scene, managed to catch Brooks, and brought him into care.
From the very beginning, Brooks captured my heart with his endearing personality. He loved his bottle, and as he grew too big for it, he eagerly lapped up his milk. His appetite was insatiable, and he relished every meal with gusto. Watching him thrive and grow was a source of immense pride and joy.
As Brooks grew stronger, the time came for him to transition from the cozy indoors to the big aviary. It was a bittersweet moment for me—I missed having him inside, but I knew it was a necessary step for his eventual release. The day of his release arrived, and with a heavy heart, I left the cage door open. The next morning, Brooks was gone, embarking on his new adventure. To ensure his continued well-being, I left food inside the aviary, and each morning, I was relieved to find the food gone. It was a sign that Brooks was alive, thriving, and still happy to call the area home.
That sense of relief was short-lived when one morning, I discovered Coco, one of my rescued joeys now a big girl kangaroo, inside the aviary, happily munching on Brooks's food. Oh Coco! It was a moment that brought a smile to my face, joy to my heart, and a reminder of the ever-changing and unexpected nature of wildlife care.
Though I missed him dearly, I found comfort in knowing that he was exploring the world beyond. About two years later, I was overjoyed to catch a glimpse of him. Brooks had made a new home in a huge eucalyptus tree on the reserve next door.
Brooks's journey from a tiny, vulnerable possum to a strong and independent big boy possum is a testament to the resilience of wildlife and the power of love and dedication. It has been a joy to be part of his story, and I take comfort in knowing that he has found his place in the wild, free to live his life as nature intended.
To all the wildlife carers out there, may you find joy in the journey, even in the bittersweet moments of letting go.
Oh Coco!!!
If you have a resident brushtail or ringtail possum living with you and you would like them moved on, please call a wildlife carer for advice. It is illegal to relocate possums, but we can help with advice to move them from your roof space. They are very territorial, and incorrect relocation means death. If not done correctly, a new family will move in, and the problem remains unsolved.