Thousands of orphaned joeys are reported to Wildlife Victoria every year. It’s incredibly important for orphaned joeys to be kept in a warm, dark and quiet environment similar to their mother’s pouch.
Wildlife Victoria volunteers regularly need suitable pouches in which to contain orphaned joeys and to help them feel safe and secure. You can help by making pouches and donating them to Wildlife Victoria or your local wildlife rescuer or carer.
Please note: The measurements in this document are approximate only. A variety of sizes are needed for a variety of animal species so feel free to make them smaller or larger.
Pouches and liners
Wildlife rescuers and carers will need lots of pouch liners as they are changed and washed regularly to ensure the joey is clean and comfortable. The liner should be closed on three sides, have rounded corners and be open at the top. Liners are essentially large pockets that can be placed inside a pouch that can be easily removed for cleaning. Liners also ensures small feet and claws do not become entangled or get injured in a knitted pouch.
If you are making the liners and pouches it is preferred that the liners are slightly taller so the top can be rolled back over the pouch edges.
Liners come in range of sizes, just like the animals that will be placed inside them! All sizes are needed for the varied species and as the animal continues to grow!
Below is a template for a larger joey such as a wombat.
Material: Pure cotton washable material only. Flannelette is a great material to use, as is polar fleece.
Large hanging pouches
Hanging pouches can be hung on a coat hanger and make the perfect home for orphaned joeys as they are able to have the familiar suspended security of being in mum’s pouch. Generally larger the better as multiple joeys may be in one hanging pouch.
Material: Blankets, polar fleece or old electric blankets.
Our volunteers often need material donations for their rescue kits and we greatly appreciate donation of some items when possible. Due to limited storage space, what we require changes depending on time of year so please email our office team to see if your item is currently needed.
