Highland, IN – A female opossum and her joeys have been rescued from a hazardous spot on the Cline Avenue entrance ramp to the toll road, where they were trapped for two days.
The rescue operation by Humane Indiana Wildlife revealed that, while the opossum was not injured, she was significantly dehydrated and hungry, with tests confirming high levels of lead in her system, likely due to prolonged exposure to nearby traffic.
According to Humane Indiana Wildlife, the presence of her joeys complicates treatment for lead toxicity, necessitating collaboration with other facilities to determine the safest course of action. The center highlighted the challenges of lead poisoning, which remains a potent environmental hazard, affecting wildlife and requiring expensive treatment. The cost of treating such wildlife can reach $50 per day, with tests costing between $8 and $10 each.
Local wildlife advocates are urging the community to support the center’s lead testing and treatment program, emphasizing the importance of community contributions to sustain these life-saving efforts. Donations can be made through their website at www.humaneindiana.org/wildlife-donate to help continue their vital work in wildlife care and rehabilitation.
