Fear for runaway wombat's safety
Fears are held for the safety of Coolgardie's perennial runaway wombat, Vinny, with his carers believing a dog has chased him away from home.
This is not the first time the marsupial has absconded from his home at Goldfields Wildlife Rehabilitators, with a similar incident occurring in January.
But the facility's wildlife co-ordinator Rowena Walker said the discovery of dog tracks near the animal care centre after Vinny went missing about 10pm on Friday was a cause for concern.
"We think something has caught him off-guard and chased him out of his territory," she said.
Ms Walker said while Vinny's prospects were better in winter, she was still very worried.
"At least it's not summer so he's probably got a longer survival period from when he last went astray," she said.
"But still, it's hard because you've got no idea where he's gone."
Ms Walker said if Vinny was found, GWR planned to fit him with a tracking device to prevent similar incidents.
The male wombat is nearly two years old and is about the size of a short bull terrier.
Anyone who finds Vinny is advised to throw a towel or blanket over him before picking him up.
Additionally, anyone with information on the wombat's whereabouts is advised to call Ms Walker on 0427 922 767.
A $500 reward has been offered for information leading to Vinny being found.
