Meet Jake
Jake, along with his sister Jade, came to Amaris Wildlife Sanctuary after a desperate call out to wildlife carers. I needed a buddy for Jaffa after the heartbreaking losses of Jaidee and Jola. It was incredibly heartening to find Wendy and Ken, willing to send not just one, but two of their precious babies, knowing it was the best outcome for Jaffa. I still send them updates.
Initially, the three didn't quite form the bond we hoped for, as Jade and Jake were inseparable. That all changed dramatically on the day of the bushfire that scared them both senseless, resulting in Jade breaking her leg. She was in confinement for six weeks after Dr. Shey at Nullakai Vet Clinic expertly pinned her leg. During her recovery, Jake and Jaffa found solace in each other, spending countless hours together while also visiting Jade during daily visiting hours. As is often the case with our emotionally sensitive kangaroos, their emotional needs sometimes outweigh their medical ones.
An intimate moment between Jaffa and Jake
Once Jade healed, Jake naturally gravitated back to her, "dumping" Jaffa in the process. Jake was a special little boy who loved teaching the younger boys how to spar. He was gentle and never hurt them, earning the affectionate nickname "Uncle Jake."
During Jade’s recovery Jake sprained his foot quite badly. Suddenly I had 2 patients. I think he was jealous of all attention Jade was getting.
As time passed, Jake grew up and about a year ago, he ventured into the bush to join the other males. In the dry conditions, food became scarce, leading many wild kangaroos to forage closer to the sanctuary. It wasn't unusual for them to raid the feed bin, but they'd usually scatter when I came out. However, a few nights ago, I encountered a big boy who wouldn't budge. I got closer and told him to move on, but he stayed put. Finally, as I approached and said, "OK, so who are you?" I was rewarded with a big, sloppy kiss. It was Jake, now a big boy, returning home.
Welcome back, Jake. Your journey has been one of love, loss, and triumph, and we are overjoyed to have you home again.
“Inspiring hope and healing for Australia’s wildlife, one rescue at a time.”
I love it when they feel so safe at Amaris and can 100% relax with no fear.
