Nov 27, 2024, 12:00 AM
Nov 26, 2024, 4:03 AM

Supreme Court decision threatens Molly the Magpie's future

Highlights
  • Molly the Magpie was removed from Juliette Wells and Reece Mortensen's home due to a lack of wildlife care permit.
  • After reinstatement sparked public backlash, the Supreme Court ruled to revoke the couple's permit to keep Molly.
  • The case emphasizes the importance of wildlife conservation laws and the implications of keeping wild animals as pets.
Story

In Queensland, Australia, legal battles surrounding a magpie named Molly have taken a dramatic turn. Molly, along with her canine companions Peggy and Ruby, live with Juliette Wells and Reece Mortensen, who gained significant social media fame with their pets. In March 2024, authorities removed Molly due to the couple's lack of a permit to care for native wildlife. After public outcry, Molly was returned six weeks later. However, in late November 2024, a legal firm representing wildlife interests successfully challenged the permit renewal granted to Ms. Wells and Mr. Mortensen, leading to fears of Molly being separated from her family again. The court's decision has been lauded by wildlife advocates emphasizing compliance with wildlife protection laws, illustrating the ongoing tension between wildlife conservation efforts and the desire to keep wild animals as pets. The couple expressed distress over the judicial proceedings, reflecting on their bond with Molly and their commitment to raising awareness about wildlife care. Their plight highlights the complexities of wildlife ownership and the enforcement of conservation laws in Australia.

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