This Little Penguin has had a lucky escape after falling from the sky at Walkers Beach, Gerroa, near Kiama on the NSW south coast.
Shocked beachgoers initially called WIRES for help on Saturday afternoon, October 19, explaining a small penguin had dropped in front of them as they made their way through bushland towards Walkers Beach.
The Little Penguin is believed to have been dropped by a hungry bird of prey.
Experienced WIRES avian and raptor carer Jana Schader attended the rescue, taking the injured penguin into care.
“Her body condition was perfect except a small puncture wound on the left leg,” explained Jana.
“The puncture wasn’t very deep, so I suspect a bird of prey, probably a White-bellied Sea Eagle, tried to grip her and she slipped out of its grasp once in the air.”
Jana had the Little Penguin in her care for six nights, administering pain relief and antibiotics for five days, under the guidance of Australian Seabird Rescue.
“After a few days I could tell she was ready to go,” said Jana.
“She came into care limping but after three days she was running around and I could tell she just wanted to go.”
The lucky Little Penguin was released at sunrise on Thursday, October 25.
“The release went perfectly, and she ran right to the ocean.” said Jana.
Did you know that the cost of food for all the wildlife we rescue and care for each year is more the $280,000. In October we run an annual appeal for Food Funds. Every little bit helps and 100% of the funds donated goes to food for wildlife in care. Donate today at https://www.wires.org.au/food-fund/donate