Taronga Wildlife Hospital has welcomed its newest and tiniest patient, Smudge – an orphaned echidna puggle, which was recently rescued and brought in for treatment.
Recognised as the busiest time of year for Australian wildlife rescues, the shorted-beaked echidna puggle was brought to the hospital after it was found on the side of a road with its mother, that had sadly passed away.
Smudge is currently under the care of Taronga veterinary nurse, Sarah Male who has found the process of caring for the puggle intensive and delicate.
In order to mimic the natural way a puggle would feed from its mother, it is understood Sarah feeds the tiny orphan several times a day by placing formula on her hand with an eyedropper for the puggle to lap up.
Sarah also takes Smudge home with her at night and will be acting as its surrogate mother for at least six months.
“Smudge seems to be in good health and is eating well now so we’re hopeful it will grow into a healthy, strong echidna,” said Sarah.
According to Taronga Wildlife Hospital, Smudge is estimated to be about 25 to 30 days old, weighs 107 grams and is 10 centimetres long.
For more information on how to assist injured wildlife on Taronga’s website: https://go.taronga.org.au/rescue