Molly the Magpie has been returned home after he was removed by wildlife authorities.
Molly the Magpie gained an online following of almost one million people enamoured by his friendship with the two Staffordshire Terriers Peggy and Ruby at the Gold Coast home of Juliette Wells and Reese Mortenson.
Officials from Queensland’s Environment Department removed the male magpie from the Mortenson’s home on March 1, saying the wild bird was being kept unlawfully.
But now the bird is finally home after spending 45 days separated from the family.
‘The Department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DESI) has approved a specialised licence and today returned ‘Molly’ the magpie to a couple who took it in as a nestling in 2020,’ a statement said.
‘Independent expert veterinary advice has shown that Molly, who was surrendered to the department on 1 March, is highly habituated and may have developmental issues, meaning it can never be rehabilitated or returned to the wild.
‘The decision to return Molly has been made in accordance with the Nature Conservation Act 1992, following extensive legal advice.’
DESI added the conditions agree to by the couple included:
* No ongoing commercial gain from the bird or its image.
* Undertaking wildlife carer training.
* Ongoing engagement with DESI to ensure the bird is receiving adequate care and enrichment.
‘These conditions are standard for all specialised licences held by wildlife carers in Queensland and ensure the best outcome for the bird’s ongoing health and wellbeing,’ they said.
‘DESI has also required the family undertake an advocacy and public education role be performed to encourage people to appropriately care for native wildlife and acknowledging the specialist skills required to care for and rehabilitate wildlife.’
Molly the Magpie, who became famous for his relationship with Staffies Ruby and Peggy, was removed from the home of Juliette Wells and Reese Mortenson on March 1
Wildlife authorities seized the Instagram-famous bird (pictured centre) over allegations the magpie was being kept unlawfully at their Gold Coast property
READ MORE: Wildlife expert reveals why Molly the Magpie should not be returned to owners
One wildlife carer, who asked to remain anonymous, told 7NEWS.com.au the magpie ‘shouldn’t be returned’ to the home despite a huge online push for the reunion