Two koalas discovered trapped at the bottom of a muddy construction site hole have made a full recovery after weeks of intensive care. Construction workers in Morayfield, north of Brisbane, made the discovery after hearing movement while placing a wooden pole into a 1.5-metre-deep pit, prompting a closer look.
At first, they believed there was only one animal, but rescuers soon realised two male koalas were stuck in the mud below. It is not known how long the pair, later named Fudge and Santino, had been trapped.
Rescue and Initial Condition
Wildlife Rescue Queensland said both koalas were in a serious condition when they were pulled from the hole using nets. They were hypothermic and had ingested mud, with Fudge requiring intensive care and critical support for an extended period.
Once stabilised, both animals were treated for additional conditions, including cystitis and dental disease. They were transported to Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, where they remained in care for between seven and nine weeks, undergoing ongoing treatment and monitoring.
Recovery and Release
Despite their condition, both koalas made a strong recovery, and they have since been released back into the wild. One of the koalas, fitted with an identification tag, was seen climbing a tree after being released following weeks of care.
Wildlife Rescue Queensland shared images of the rescue and release, highlighting the successful rehabilitation of the two koalas.
