HOW TO POUCH CHECK
- jasminekateconnell
- Apr 8, 2025
- 2 min read
This guide provides instructions on how to safely remove a joey from the pouch of kangaroos and possums. The process of removing a joey from the pouch is a delicate task that requires careful consideration for the animals involved. By following these detailed instructions, individuals can ensure that they perform this task safely and effectively.
-When to Remove a Joey-
Before attempting to remove a joey from the pouch, it is essential to determine the appropriate time for this action. Is the mother deceased? if yes proceed
DO NOT REMOVE JOEYS FROM ALIVE MUMS
Not confident in checking, that's okay pin drop the location and contact a local wildlife carer who can perform the pouch check.
HOW TO POUCH CHECK
1.Confirm the animal is deceased and move it away from the road for your safety.
2.Check the sex if male spray a cross visible for other passing cars.
3. If female look deep inside the pouch, joey may be fused to teat (if not skip to step 4). Forcefully removing from the teat will harm its mouth and can be fatal. Place a safety pin in the teat near 1-2cm from the base of the teat and then cut the teat off at the base to remove the joey.
4. You can cut the pouch to make the opening wider and place your hand behind the joeys back to scoop them out carefully. DO NOT pull them out by the legs or tail be extremely careful when removing.
5.Once you have a joey place them in a towel, jumper or fabric shopping bag and if needed pin the teat to the side
Pouch but no joey? is one nipple longer than the other. Squeeze the tip of the nipple firmly does milk come out. A joey might have come out the pouch and hiding in the bushes. Have a search around but if you can’t find it, pin drop the location on your phone and send to a wildlife organization
NEVER attempt to feed the joey as they can aspirate easily. A permit is required in South Australia to care for Macropods
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