Meet Pixie
Meet Pixie, a pygmy possum who weighs just 5 grams in this photo—a testament to the wonders of the wildlife world. Pixie's incredible journey began when she was found trapped in a bucket of water at my son's house. Unable to escape on her own, she was rescued by my son, who quickly brought her to my daughter—a registered carer with Amaris Wildlife Rehabilitation Sanctuary at the time.
Pixie being gently cradled in my son’s hands
Under the watchful care of my daughter, Pixie was nursed back to health. She was full of ticks, which my daughter painstakingly removed. These tiny possums are extremely challenging to work with due to their diminutive size and their penchant for escaping. Pixie, with her determination, even managed to chew through a wire cage in her bid for freedom. Despite the challenges, my daughter provided the care and attention Pixie needed, and after a few weeks, Pixie's weight had increased to a healthy 9 grams.
Once Pixie was strong enough and she achieved her goal weight for release, she was taken back to my son's property and released.. Seeing her thrive and return to the wild was a rewarding moment for all of us. She wasted no time in disappearing back into bushes. My daughter was mentored by an experienced pygmy possum carer.
A Reminder for Wildlife Safety
Pixie's story serves as an important reminder to be mindful of items like buckets that may collect water, bird baths, or any other containers where small animals might become trapped. Simple measures such as placing rocks or a stick inside can provide an escape route for these tiny creatures, preventing similar incidents.
Pygmy possums, despite their small size, play a significant role in our ecosystem. Ensuring their safety and well-being, along with other wildlife, is essential for maintaining biodiversity and the health of our natural environment.
By sharing Pixie's journey, we hope to raise awareness about the challenges faced by these small but mighty creatures and inspire others to take simple steps to protect and care for the wildlife around us.
Additional Information
Pygmy possums are fascinating creatures. Here are some quick facts about them:
Diet: They primarily feed on nectar, pollen, insects, and small fruits.
Habitat: Pygmy possums are found in a variety of habitats, from rainforests to heathlands.
Reproduction: They give birth to tiny underdeveloped young that continue to grow in the mother's pouch.
Adaptations: These possums are highly agile and can use their prehensile tails to help them climb and grasp branches.
Remember to always keep an eye out for wildlife in need and take steps to ensure their safety in our ever-changing environment. Pixie's story is a powerful reminder of the resilience of these tiny creatures and the importance of our role in their protection.