Molly the magpie’s 45-day ordeal finally over

After a tumultuous 45 days in the custody of authorities, Molly the magpie has finally been reunited with its unlikely canine companion.

Molly the magpie has finally returned to its Gold Coast home and been reunited with its unlikely best friend Peggy the Staffy.

Queensland’s Department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DESI) made the announcement on Monday, marking the end of a 45-day saga that gripped the nation.

“(DESI) has approved a specialised license and today returned ‘Molly’ the magpie to a couple who took it in as a nestling in 2020,” the department revealed in a statement.

Molly the magpie has finally returned home after 45 days in custody of Queensland wildlife authorities. Picture: Instagram,

She reunited with her canine companion, Peggy, in a heartwarming moment. Picture: Facebook / Peggy and Molly.

Independent veterinary experts have determined that Molly is “highly habituated” and may suffer from developmental issues, rendering her unfit for rehabilitation or return to the wild.

This decision was made in accordance with the Nature Conservation Act 1992, and came after extensive legal counsel, the department said.

The department further revealed that the family, Juliette Wells and Reece Mortensen, demonstrated their commitment to Molly’s welfare by fulfilling the conditions outlined in the license, including refraining from commercial exploitation of the bird or its image, undergoing wildlife carer training, engaging with DESI to ensure Molly’s ongoing care and enrichment.

Molly was surrendered on March 1st and was determined to be unfit for rehabilitation or return to the wild due to developmental issues. Picture: Facebook / Peggy and Molly.

The family, Juliette Wells and Reece Mortensen, had to fulfil certain conditions to get a specialised license for Molly’s return. Picture: Facebook / Peggy and Molly.

The statement emphasised that “these conditions are standard for all specialised licenses held by wildlife carers in Queensland and ensure the best outcome for the bird’s ongoing health and wellbeing.”

Additionally, DESI mandated that the family take on an advocacy and public education role to promote responsible care for native wildlife.

The nation has been captivated by Molly’s story since her surrender, as the magpie and her human family garnered over 800,000 followers on Instagram, showcasing Molly’s heartwarming friendship with the couple’s pet staffy, Peggy.

The saga reached its climax on Thursday, April 11, when DESI announced Molly’s imminent return to her family, albeit with stringent conditions.

Molly‘s adopted Gold Coast family surrendered him in March following complaints over the lack of a wildlife carer’s permit. Picture: Instagram,

The couple shared the “first photo” of Molly on April 12, captured by caretakers at the facility where she was held, expressing their eagerness for her return.

Molly, the Mortensens and their staffies found friends in high places along the way in Queensland premier Stephen Miles who advocated heavily for the bird’s return.

“This morning the Department has advised me that the couple can secure the appropriate licence. The team will work with them now to do that,” Mr Miles said Wednesday last week.

“It’s good news and means Molly can come home very soon.

“I’d like to thank everyone who has written to me to share their concerns and advocate for Molly’s return.”