He's back! Bullet hasn't been seen since Nov 1, and suddenly here he was outside the kitchen window yesterday. That face, that nose pattern, that ripped ear, all were like balm to my soul.
I'm afraid I have very sad news and it feels like Bullet knew something.
Jordan's mysteries have been unravelled.
The blood tests have come back showing that his bone marrow is not working to replace his red blood cells and there is a cancer process indicated.
With our knowledge of koala health, the indications strongly point to retrovirus as the very underpinning issue.
The retrovirus KORV-B is widespread in the koala population. It tends to lay low, like a predator watching for a chance to pounce.
So becoming infected with this parasite has produced a situation where the retrovirus has surfaced and tipped the balance.
I had a detailed discussion yesterday with the vet who has been in charge of his case. Unfortunately he was still deteriorating and the decision was made to euthanase as there is no cure.
One amazing koala lost at a time we truly need every single one of them. How did Bullet know to come back and appear in the very tree I last saw Jordan in, on the very day of his demise? Koalas are magic I'm quite certain.
Thank you for the huge support here, I'm ok, devastated, but I'm so proud to have been a part of Jordans life over the past 6 years as he is one of 'big koalas'.
I don't know how to express my sadness - I've never in my life even seen a koala but you made me, and many more, part of Jordan's life... and Bullet has come back to console you. I'm proud that I 'know' the Koala Lady.
My eyes are leaking for Jordan too. I agree completely with what everyone has already said, especially Mr. Sayer. I am glad Bullet has returned and I hope he stays close. I am so sorry.
Ooh Katerina , what shocker - - poor brave fellow , my heart aches for you and Jordan ! So sad , do take care of yourself and the rest of your brood - ,so nice seeing Bullet (torn ear and all ! ) back with you - a well timed distraction in your sadness ! Keep strong !
I am so sad- I was just watching the video of Jordan getting out of his recovery cage yesterday. Isn't it fascinating how nature seems to "know" sometimes. It's like Bullet knew you'd need something special and he provided it. We will miss Jordan's pics. Nice shot of Bullet. Thinking of you and sending you hugs and love from PA.
So sorry for the loss of Jordan, you must be heartbroken. I only knew him briefly, and in pictures, but I feel like I've lost him too. Still, I'm so glad you introduced him to my life for at least that brief time and I'm glad Bullet showed up today to bring some comfort.
So sad you lost the amazing Jordan we will never forget him and his adventures at Koala Gardens. I am Happy Bullet came back to comfort you and hope he stays around for a while.
Katrina, so sorry to read about Jordan. You helped to provide a wonderful place for him to spend his life. I’m glad Bullet is back to remind why you work so hard to preserve the habitat.
Oh, so very sad to hear the news of dear Jordan.....he was one gorgeous koala character! Wonderful for Bullet to come home & outside your window to say " I'm Home Katrina." We all became teary with & for you.
I can only echo all the above, having read it yesterday I am all cried out! just so happy that Bullit came back to relieve your pain a bit. suppose that is what nature is all about. sending hugs and blessings :-)
This is so sad about Jordan and after knowing him for 6 years - and such good news about Bullet to suddenly appear in this special tree.
This is the trouble with animals having shorter lifespans than humans- we have to see them go...Hugs xx
Oh Katrina - this is such sad news - he has touched the lives of so many people on 365 - this will be a sad day for many. It's as if Bullet knew he had to return to you. I can't help crying for a koala that I never really knew except through your wonderful photos...
so sorry to hear you've lost him
Bullet knew; what a story, thanks for sharing these amazing animals with us
This is the trouble with animals having shorter lifespans than humans- we have to see them go...Hugs xx