In a dramatic series of events a large male kangaroo found itself in a backyard in Packenham recently.  Our rescue teams undertook the rescue of this stranded animal.

This large male kangaroo was called into our 24 Hour Emergency Phone Centre. Our trained operators took details and arranged for a rescue team to assess the situation.  On arrival the team decided to call out a darter to sedate the very large animal for transport.

It is important to remember to call on experienced rescuers to help with rescues and Wildlife Victoria is available 24 hours.

Once the sedatives had taken effect the kangaroo's head is covered to reduce any further stress on the animal.  Kangaroos are very prone to stress and when they are chased can suffer capture myopathy which is potentially lethal.

Kangaroos often suffer capture myopathy when being chased by dogs, motor bikes and people.  If you ever see this occurring you should contact your local police.  Chasing kangaroos or allowing your pets to chase kangaroos is illegal and could potentially end in a jail term.

Kangaroos can also be dangerous when placed in a stressful situation.  It is important that people respect these amazing animals and keep a good distance from them to alleviate stress on the animals and also potential harm to themselves.

The size of the kangaroo's hand is the same size of the rescuers.  With an animal this big it was necessary to dart first, rather than try to catch it and hold it down to sedate.

Wildlife Victoria uses professional darters who have a vast amount of experience in wildlife rescue.  Their services are invaluable to our rescue efforts across the state.

The kangaroo is transported in a specially designed 'roo-bag' which has good air-circulation and is designed, like a stretcher, for four people to be able to carry a heavy animal.

The kangaroo is then transported to the closest kangaroo range to return to its mob.

As the kangaroo wakes it is offered water to rehydrate it after its strange ordeal.  It takes anywhere from a few minutes to hours for a kangaroo to come out of sedation.  Until it is fully awake the rescuers will remain with it to ensure it is not predated on while anaesthetised.

This beautiful kangaroo made a full recovery and returned home after its brief sojourn in Packenham.

A huge thanks to our wonderful and committed volunteers for all their work on this rescue and the hundreds of others that take place daily across the state.