AssetID: 53305879
Headline: Bonnie The Bettong Joey Gets Into The Festive Spirit Ahead Of Her First Christmas
Caption: **VIDEO AVAILABLE. CONTACT INFO@COVERMG.COM TO RECEIVE.** An adorable baby bettong is gearing up to celebrate her first Christmas, eagerly participating in setting up the Christmas tree and immersing herself in the festive atmosphere. Bonnie is being hand-raised by Operations Manager Dean Reid at wildlife sanctuary Aussie Ark near the Barrington Tops of New South Wales, Australia. It’s the third Rufous bettong Reid has raised, and one of 60 animals in total he’s nurtured into adulthood. “It’s such a privilege sharing Christmas with this precious and rare Australian marsupial,” Reid said. “At first Bonnie was a bit hesitant when I started setting up the tree and unpacking the box of goodies…but she soon got into the swing of things!” The adorable baby bettong, now six months old, delightedly sniffed at the Christmas baubles as they were hung, playfully explored the tinsel strewn on the ground, and kept a vigilant eye out for Santa Claus as she ventured about the outdoor garden. Bonnie is Reid's constant companion, accompanying him everywhere he goes, even spending nights at his home in Moonan Flat, a 40-minute drive down the mountain from the Aussie Ark facility. Reid explained that someday, Bonnie will play a vital role in Aussie Ark's breeding and rewilding program, but for now, their time together is filled with boundless enjoyment and adventure. The Rufous bettong, a distinguished member of the kangaroo family and considered a living fossil, possesses the hopping ability and pouch characteristic of kangaroos. However, it can emit growling sounds when agitated and sports a semi-prehensile tail, which it uses to transport nesting materials, similar to a monkey. Due to its nocturnal nature and relative obscurity, very few Australians are aware of its existence. Tragically, the wild population of Rufous bettongs is dwindling, primarily due to the threat of feral predators. Bonnie, under Reid's dedicated care, enjoys a blessed life and is the embodiment of health. Reid affectionately describes her as their very own Christmas miracle.
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