SKER confirmed the koala had been checked over by a vet and, apart from a scrape and “what we imagine is a very sore head”, the “brave boy” was doing well.
Axle the koala became lodged in the grille of this car after it struck him last weekend. Photo / Southern Koala and Echidna Rescue Ltd
“One phone call truly made all the difference,” the charity said, acknowledging the driver who stopped to check on the marsupial before calling its 24-hour wildfire hotline.
“Axle will spend a few days resting and receiving some well-deserved TLC before being released back into a safer part of his home territory.”
Facebook users flooded SKER’s post with well-wishes suggested Axle and praise for rescuers for their dedicated efforts.
“OMG Axle. How lucky you are. Please stay off roads,” one commenter advised the koala.
“That’s one amazing Koala, and a kindhearted driver, and an out of this world rescue team!!” another said.
“What a miracle,” a third added. “Praise be to the person that stopped and made that call.”
Another jokingly suggested the koala be renamed “Bear Grylls”.
SKER said its wildlife hotline was critical in Axle’s rescue, adding: “You never know when it might save a life.”
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