20/06/2026
🍀 Listening to little Pumpkin the back‑rider 🦦 screech might make you think he’s angry or unfriendly — he’s not. He’s terrified. 🙉
Pumpkin’s journey to safety has been rough. He was found sleeping inside a garage roller door, living in it for protection. Every time the door opened or closed, he endured a full 360‑degree tumble — his tiny heart racing, no mum around to comfort or save him.
When our rescuer tried to coax him out, he bolted into a tree - making her climb it too - and fought hard before finally giving in, still kicking and screaming on the way down. It wasn't an easy nor pleasant climb for either of them 🫣
With his mum likely killed, Pumpkin had been trying to raise himself. The stress compromised his immune system, resulting in the start of dermatitis spreading across his legs and face, affecting his vision and ability to eat. He was in emotional and physical pain — and without treatment, he would have faced a slow, excruciating death ☠️
After a week in hospital 🚑, Pumpkin is now in care with RAWR. He still cries out when approached for a skin bath to aid healing, not yet believing he’s finally protected.
Day 1 & 2 he made it almost impossible to dab his face. By day 3 he started settling, only giving a slight 'watch yourself I'll still bite' noise. He will learn he's safe thou over the next few days so he can heal faster. When he’s strong enough to return home, he'll be a healthy young sub adult.
Our beautiful possums endure so much. The least we can do is make their journey easier, in return for the incredible work they do repopulating our suburbs with new plant and tree life. 🌳🍀🌱🌻🌺
Rest up Pumpkin and relax.
We got you. 🌷💞
