Molly the Magpie’s carers receive major update: ‘Happy and healthy’

Molly the magpie’s carers have received a major update about the world-famous bird weeks after he was seized by wildlife rangers.

A beloved magpie that was controversially taken by wildlife rangers could soon be reunited with its owners after its seizure sparked national outrage.

Molly the magpie was rescued as a chick in 2020 after falling from its nest and nursed back to health by Gold Coast couple Juliette Wells and Reece Mortensen.

The bird rose to internet fame after becoming best friends with Peggy, the couple’s English staffy, and their cross-animal friendship even inspired a book.

Following Molly’s rise to stardom, complaints surfaced regarding the couple’s possession of native wildlife without proper permits, prompting Queensland’s Department of Environment, Science, and Innovation (DESI) to intervene.

Ms Wells and Mr Mortensen surrendered Molly to authorities on March 1, leading to an outpouring of support from followers worldwide.

However, a recent breakthrough could see the bird returned to its owners and best pal Peggy.

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Peggy the dog cuddles a plush toy magpie in Molly’s absence. Picture: Facebook

The pair were famous friends. Picture: Facebook / Peggy and Molly.

On Tuesday night, the couple received a long-awaited call from a DESI representative, who assured them of Molly’s safety and wellbeing.

“To say we are relieved is an understatement,” they shared on Instagram on Tuesday night.

“We were told he was healthy, happy, and in good spirits.

The pair added DESI were“looking at options to proceed” with Queensland Premier Steven Miles’ suggestion to train them up as certified wildlife carers so they could be reunited with the bird.

“We’ve done lots of research and studying in relation to looking after the magpies,” Mr Mortensen told Nine’s Today show on Wednesday.

He said he was unsure what further training they would need to do.

“I’ve been through all the accredited training to rehabilitate wildlife... so we’re not quite sure exactly what sort of further training is involved,” he said.

“But they’re going through the legalities right now to work out what they can do to, to bring him home.”

DESI separated the pair March 1. Picture: Facebook / Peggy and Molly.

They have recently reached out to Molly’s former parents. Picture: Facebook / Peggy and Molly.

The Tuesday night social media post was accompanied by an emotive video showing Peggy cuddling a stuffed magpie.

“Stay positive, keep focused on the best outcome and never give up on this noisy little magpie,” they wrote.

The couple appear optimistic about the possibility of being reunited with Molly.

“The legalities of the situation is not an easy fix and it’s a process through legal frameworks,” their latest post read.

“We will be contacted again by the end of the week with the process and updates.”

Calls to reunite the pair have intensified. Picture: Facebook / Peggy and Molly.

Queensland premier Steven Miles recently said: ‘I think sometimes common sense needs to prevail’. Picture: Facebook / Peggy and Molly.

Molly’s unexpected departure has affected Ms Wells and Mr Mortensen and left their canine companions, particularly Peggy, visibly distressed.
The seizure of Molly prompted widespread outrage on social media platforms, with supporters rallying behind the couple through petitions and messages of solidarity.

Mr Miles, echoing public sentiment, emphasised the importance of prioritising the animal’s wellbeing and hinted at the possibility of a legal resolution that would facilitate Molly’s return to his rightful home.

“I think sometimes common sense needs to prevail,” he previously told media.

DESI, in its efforts to ensure Molly’s welfare, has assured the public of ongoing care and rehabilitation for the magpie.

“The department has contacted the couple to assure them that Molly is being well cared for and that options are being examined for the bird’s future care,” a DESI spokesman said.

“Our priority is the ongoing welfare of the magpie, and the bird is safe, undergoing rehabilitation and has full access to veterinary care.”

Originally published as Molly the Magpie’s carers receive major update: ‘Happy and healthy’