Furry find: Police handed bag containing baby koala
Police officers in Queensland have experienced an unexpected, adorable and furry first during an arrest in Brisbane, when a woman handed over a bag telling them it contained a baby koala.
Sceptical at first, the officers were careful when they opened the bag, which was in fact carrying a joey.
A patrol car had stopped to speak to a woman at Wishart on Sunday night, and police say when the 50-year-old was arrested on outstanding matters she was asked if she had anything to declare before being transported to the watch house.
The RSPCA was called to the Brisbane City Watch house to collect the marsupial.
The joey, who has been called Alfred, is believed to be about six-months-old.
It is thought the koala seemed to be a bit dehydrated but generally appeared to be in good health.
Police are investigating claims by the woman that she was caring for the animal after finding it on Kessels Road at Nathan on Saturday night.
"He’s been on fluids but is doing well and will shortly be going out to a carer," said RSPCA Qld spokesperson Michael Beatty.
The RSPCA has advised anyone who comes across a marsupial to contact authorities instead of trying to handle it.
RSPCA Qld spokesperson Michael Beatty said, "Please call our animal emergency hotline on 1300 ANIMAL.
"Often the animal may have no obvious signs of injury but it can have internal injuries that need immediate attention."
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