The valley’s very happy home for wildlife

AFTER the Black Summer bushfires, Happy Valley’s Liz Howard volunteered at a wildlife shelter for two years.

“They said, ‘why don’t you become a carer?’ So I put my name down,” she said.

Over the last six months, with the support of Snake Valley shelter, Ms Howard has raised or rehabilitated kangaroos, wallabies, possums, and 14 ducks, many of which have been released or taken to sanctuaries where they prepare them for a soft release.

Her days and nights are full of bottle-feeding, cleaning, washing, toileting the animals, and making pouches.

“Currently I have three kangaroos, which I’ll raise until they’re five kilos, two wallabies, two possums, and a sugar glider,” she said.

“Animals come to me from rescuers, not only locals, but as far as Portland. Rescued animals are placed wherever there is room.”

Many of the joeys Ms Howard cares for have been rescued from their mother’s pouch after she has been killed by a vehicle.

“They could be there for 24 hours dead with a little baby in their pouch. I transition the babies to the formulas, which are good, but it’s very different for them, so it’s a challenge,” she said.

When asked why she volunteers her time, Ms Howard said she simply adores her little furry friends.

“You’ve got to be a caring and loving person to be able to do it, but I love caring for them, and they’re good company.

“It’s hard to say goodbye to them, it’s heartbreaking, but you know you’ve done your part to get them there,” she said.

Ms Howard funds her wildlife care personally and is seeking assistance. If you would like to offer support, contact 0490 390 146.