Successful Rescue and Release: Cocoa the Echidna Returns to the Wild!
By Jill Dando News
Cocoa, a tiny echidna puggle, was recently found alone and lying on a busy road, far too young to be without her mum. The Australia Zoo Rescue Unit quickly responded to the call and helped rescue this precious animal.
With uncertainty around whether Cocoa had been struck by a vehicle, the team transported her to the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital for a thorough examination.
Thankfully, Cocoa hadn’t suffered any injuries, but being so young and little, she was placed under the care of a specialised wildlife carer for four months.
During this time, Cocoa grew stronger, developing her full set of protective spikes. Upon a final check-up from our veterinary team, Cocoa was ready to return to the wild.
Wildlife Warriors Terri, Bindi and Grace released Cocoa into her natural habitat, excitingly celebrating Grace’s first echidna release!
Terri Irwin, world-renowned conservationist, shared her joy at Cocoa’s return to the wild, “We are thrilled that sweet Cocoa is now back in her natural habitat, and to do it with the help of Grace and Bindi was a memory I’ll treasure.”
Cocoa was released at Kidaman Creek, a safe and natural haven far from the dangers of the road.
She was thrilled to be back in the wild and waddled straight into the bushland!
“Echidnas are very unique, they can live up to 40 years, and are monotremes, which means they’re egg-laying mammals, making them incredibly special when they come into the Wildlife Hospital. As they’re important for the ecosystem, it’s crucial we rehabilitate echidnas like Cocoa, so they can go on to have lots of their own little puggles!” said Terri.
Cocoa’s journey is a powerful reminder for all drivers to stay alert and look out for wildlife, especially in known crossing areas. Every life matters, and it only takes a moment to make a difference.
The Australia Zoo Rescue Unit works seven days a week, responding to wildlife emergencies of every kind. From sea turtles to koalas, the team is trained and equipped to help rescue Australia’s unique species. Since the Wildlife Hospital's opening in 2004, over 148,000 animals have received lifesaving treatment, making it one of the largest and busiest wildlife hospitals in the world.
