A touching success story unfolded at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, as Lady J, named in honour of Wildlife Warrior Julia Morris, was released into her natural habitat after undergoing nine months of dedicated rehabilitation.
Julia generously donated towards the care of Lady J, a beautiful koala who was found orphaned and in need of urgent attention.
After receiving a full health check from the veterinary team, Lady J was placed under the care of a specialised wildlife carer, who nurtured her with love and warmth.
As part of her journey, Lady J joined the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital’s Koala Kindy, where she learned vital survival skills, including climbing tall trees, foraging for eucalyptus leaves, and interacting with other koalas.
Julia Morris said, “Lady J is the very essence of sweetness. I’m so grateful for the incredible work being done by the team at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital in caring for these beautiful Aussie icons, it’s such an honor to be a part of Lady J’s journey.”
Lady J’s successful release back into the wild highlights the urgent need to protect koalas.
In 2022, these iconic animals were classed as as endangered species, and their survival remains threatened by habitat destruction, road accidents, domestic pet attacks, and disease.
From conducting groundbreaking research to find a cure for diseases like chlamydia, to treating koalas nationwide during the 2020 bushfire season, and rehabilitating over 11,000 koalas at the Wildlife Hospital since its humble beginnings, we are proud to continue our critical work in helping these animals.
Robert Irwin said, “We’re so grateful to Julia for her support in helping Lady J return to the wild. Koala populations are dwindling at an unparalleled rate, making it more important than ever to come together and save these emblematic animals.”
“Lady J’s journey is a wonderful reminder of the positive impact that conservation and community support can have on the future of our iconic wildlife. By saving one life, we are ultimately saving the entire species,” Robert said.
The Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, treating all native wildlife at no cost to the public.
To find out how you can help the Wildlife Hospital and donate, visit wildlifewarriors.org.au.
