Molly the Magpie has returned home after being taken by wildlife authorities earlier this year.
The beloved bird had captivated nearly one million online followers with her unique friendship with two Staffordshire Terriers, Peggy and Ruby, at the Gold Coast residence of Juliette Wells and Reese Mortenson.
On March 1, Queensland’s Environment Department officials removed Molly, claiming the wild bird was being kept illegally. After spending 45 days apart from her family, the magpie has finally returned.
A statement from the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DESI) confirmed that Molly was returned to Juliette and Reese after they were granted a specialized license.
It was noted that expert veterinary assessments indicated Molly, who was surrendered to the department in March, is highly habituated and may have developmental issues, making rehabilitation or a return to the wild impossible.
The decision to return Molly followed extensive legal consultation and adheres to the Nature Conservation Act 1992.
Juliette and Reese have committed to several conditions as part of the agreement. They will undergo wildlife carer training, maintain ongoing communication with DESI to ensure Molly’s care, and refrain from profiting from her image.
According to DESI, these requirements are standard for wildlife carers in Queensland and are designed to promote the well-being of the bird.
Additionally, the family will engage in advocacy and public education to raise awareness about the proper care for native wildlife and the specialized skills required for their rehabilitation.
Molly’s removal sparked a significant social media outcry, with many followers urging for her safe return. Even Queensland Premier Steven Miles joined the calls for Molly’s reunification, despite the couple’s frustrations over his previous lack of response to their inquiries.
On Wednesday, he announced that Molly would soon be reunited with her canine companions.
“The department has advised me that the couple can secure the appropriate license. The team will work with them to do that now,” Mr. Miles stated, expressing relief over Molly’s imminent return.
Juliette and Reese rescued Molly as a chick after she fell from her nest in 2020. Initially thought to be female, the name Molly stuck despite the magpie’s male gender.
Videos of her playful antics with the couple’s dogs quickly gained popularity and helped her amass a loyal following.
Queensland law prohibits the domestication of native wild animals, allowing only individuals with rehabilitation permits to care for sick, orphaned, or injured wildlife with the intention of releasing them back into their natural habitats.
The couple emphasized that Molly was never kept like a typical pet; she had the freedom to fly and forage while always returning home.
Six months prior to her removal, authorities had requested Molly’s surrender, but Juliette was unable to capture the bird at the time. Now, with the proper license in place, Molly is home where she belongs.
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