A juvenile short-beaked echidna has been successfully rehabilitated and released into the wild in Rockhampton, following three months of intensive care by a specialist volunteer wildlife carer.
The echidna was seized by the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) after it had been illegally taken from Mount Archer National Park by a member of the public.
A veterinarian assessment at the time of its seizure found that the echidna was underweight, humanised, and unable to forage for food on its own, and was placed with a licenced wildlife carer.
After two months of lengthy rehabilitation, it began foraging on its own for food and avoiding human interaction, which led to its release in August 2025.
Under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 a person must not take, use, keep or interfere with a native animal, and could face a maximum penalty of $500,700 or two-years imprisonment.
Senior wildlife officer Leigh Deutscher said the release was rewarding and, fittingly, took place on World Ranger Day.
"A juvenile echidna was taken from Mount Archer National Park in February 2025 and kept in captivity for three months without a permit, licence or authority.
"After a concerned member of the public became aware of this and tipped us off, we were able to rescue the echidna and place it with a licenced wildlife carer.
"After a lengthy rehabilitation, we successfully released the echidna, and it immediately began foraging on small insects and disappeared into bushland.
"Taking or interfering with a native animal without relevant permits is illegal.
"If this is not enough deterrent, it is also important to consider the very specialised needs on native animals like echidnas and that keeping an animals without the appropriate skills and knowledge can be to the detriment of the animal – so please call the department if you see an animal you believe to be sick or injured."
Echidnas are vital to their ecosystems, improving soil health, controlling pests, and supporting biodiversity through their digging and foraging behaviours.
People can report injured or sick native animals by calling 1300 130 372.
