PREVIEW

Two adorable wombat joeys are settling into their cosy new home after being rejected by their koala mothers.

At 9 and 7 months old, Edgar and Honey now receive round-the-clock care and affection from the Australian Reptile Park's Keeper, Seleena de Gelder.

Seleena, for the first time in her career, is juggling the challenge of raising two koalas simultaneously. "Having Edgar and Honey at home has been both challenging and rewarding," she says, sharing that their constant need for feeding and health monitoring is demanding but fulfilling.

Bringing up the joeys requires dedication similar to raising human babies, with late-night feedings and creating an environment that mimics the care they would have received from their mothers.

Her home has become a safe haven for the two, who are quickly adjusting to their new environment. "Edgar loves exploring, climbing on everything, while Honey prefers to snuggle and watch," Seleena shared.

Raising Edgar and Honey is part of the Australian Reptile Park’s mission to support koala conservation, as wild populations face ongoing threats. The survival of these vulnerable joeys showcases the dedication of the park's keepers, playing a crucial role in maintaining stable koala numbers.

Seleena hopes that by sharing their story, more people will be aware of the plight facing koalas and the importance of conservation. "It’s a privilege to care for them and be part of their journey," she notes.

Eventually, once independent, Edgar and Honey will join the koala family at the Australian Reptile Park, where visitors will have the chance to meet them and learn more about koalas' challenges. For now, under Seleena’s devoted care, they’re thriving and charming everyone they encounter with their playful spirits and heartwarming bond.