The fate of Katrina now hangs in mid-air thanks to the Department for Environment and Natural Resources – Animal Welfare Manager who requested she be transferred to a zoo immediately.
AMWRRO received a call from DENR demanding her immediate release and transport interstate so she can be kept as a permanent exhibit animal.
AMWRRO is currently working with the Department of Conservation (DOC) in New Zealand to determine if Katrina is eligible to be imported into
NZ and returned to her natural habitat; having said that, this will be stopped if DENR and the zoo have it their way!
AMWRRO is dedicated to providing marine wildlife (that are eligible for re-release) with a second chance at a free life – this of course takes into consideration the animals physical condition, injuries, diseases, habitat and ability to survive in the wild. If any animal is ineligible for release due to the above; then and only then will AMWRRO consider that animal an ambassador for their species and will then actively search for an appropriate home elsewhere.
AMWRRO has contacted Minister Caica’s office (Minister for the Department for Environment and Natural Resources) several times today to explain her current situation and to further explain that travelling Katrina now would cause sever stress and could ultimately kill her as a consequence. AMWRRO is yet to receive any return correspondence from Minister Caica’s office with regards to this matter.
On a much brighter note, Katrina has for the first time today eaten fish on her own and has gained 120gms since arriving in Adelaide – she still has several issues to overcome and a possible surgery in the near future concerning her open wound but is looking better and better as each day passes.
Flippers crossed she maintains a speedy recovery and the New Zealand authorities are happy for her to return!
Watch this space ladies and gentlemen!
