Animal Diaries Archive

Taffy's first appearance

29 December 2006

There are so many special moments at Australia Zoo, but few can beat the first glimpse of a baby koala. Such was the occasion in mid September.

Flossy is a confident and experienced 12-year-old mum, who currently has a beautiful 11-month-old joey. As the story goes, a few months ago Flossy sat relaxed and rested in the dappled afternoon sun. As Flossy was leisurely eating some of her favourite gum leaf, her joey suddenly made a brief yet spectacular appearance. First there was the very special moment when Taffy’s back foot popped out of Flossy’s pouch, followed by the oohs and aahhs of all the Australia Zoo guests lucky enough to be there at that momentous event. As we all watched intently and expectantly, Flossy remained oblivious to the energy, excitement and fuss surrounding her little bundle of joy. As if right on queue and in line with all our silent wishes, Taffy’s fine, delicate little front paws then appeared, clutching on to the fur of Flossy’s chest. This was quickly followed by the popping out of Taffy’s head. At first all we could see was the soft downy fur on the back of the head, and then Taffy’s head turned to see all the adoring fans – some eyes misting over with the sheer joy of what they were seeing. Taffy climbed out of the pouch and sat quietly on Flossy’s stomach for a few moments before turning to face Flossy. Taffy’s nose touched Flossy’s and this tender moment between mother and joey resulted in resounding aahhs… from everyone. As quickly as she emerged, Ttaffy clambered back into Flossy’s pouch.

She is pretty much all grown up now, and we get to see her antics every day in our Koala Walk-through enclosure, as she becomes more and more independent