October 22nd 2024.
A cockatoo, known by the endearing name Mickey, has finally been freed after a month of being trapped inside a shopping center in Sydney. This feathery friend had captured the hearts of many on social media, as he made himself at home in Coles at Macarthur Square. Mickey's daily routine included indulging in the tasty treats offered in the supermarket's buffet.
However, the situation took a turn when it was time for Mickey to be rescued. The wildlife rescue organization, WIRES, encountered a small hurdle in retrieving him safely. The ceiling was too high to catch him with a net, and tranquilizers were not an option as they could prove fatal when he landed. A spokesperson from WIRES shared their predicament with A Current Affair.
But as fate would have it, a local hero came to the rescue. Ravi Wasan, from the volunteer-run organization Sydney Wildlife Rescue, stepped in to assist. Wasan, who also happens to be the director of Feathered Friends, brought along his own licensed cockatoo to help lure Mickey down to safety. In a video capturing the heartwarming rescue, Wasan can be seen trying to earn Mickey's trust by offering him food, while his own cockatoo provided reassurance.
It took some time, but eventually, Mickey mustered up the courage to venture into an open cage, where food had been left as bait. Keeping a safe distance, Wasan waited patiently for Mickey to enter further before making his move. With skilled precision, he closed the cage and Mickey was safely captured. The tense onlookers couldn't help but applaud Wasan's efforts, and he looked visibly relieved.
The Environment Minister, Penny Sharpe, expressed her delight at the successful rescue, stating that Mickey was now in the hands of experts and would be assessed before being released back into the wild. She also thanked all those who had played a part in bringing Mickey to safety, including Ravi from Sydney Wildlife Rescue, WIRES, Coles, and the team at NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.
Greg Warren, the member for Campbelltown, also shared his appreciation for everyone involved in the rescue mission. He commended the diligence and hard work of those who volunteered for local wildlife rescue groups and looked forward to seeing Mickey back where he belonged – in the wild.
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