Internet sensation and beloved pet magpie Molly, who shot to fame during the lockdown period in 2020, is now at the center of a controversy.
The bird was taken under the wing (pun intended) of an Australian photographer, Juliette Wells, and her husband, Reece Mortensen, during the lockdown in 2020 when he was just a fledgling.
The internet fell in love with Molly, who found a loyal buddy in the couple’s pet dog, Peggy. However, recent events have led to an unexpected separation between this unlikely pair.
Peggy and Molly, a beautiful Staffy and magpie, formed an unlikely friendship over the last four years
Image credits: Peggyandmolly
Molly is not just any bird; he's an Instagram star with a following of over 732K people, who have all been enchanted by his unique bond with Peggy. Fans gushed with love over pictures and videos of Peggy and Molly basking in the sun, playing together, or just hanging out at Juliette’s home.
Recent events have separated Peggy and Molly after the bird was taken away by the members of the Department of Environment, Science, and Innovation (DESI) in Queensland.
The two best friends not only became inseparable but also turned into internet sensations because of their close bond
Image credits: Peggyandmolly
Juliette and Reece said they had no choice but to surrender their beloved bird to them.
The news about the separation of Molly and Peggy caused quite a stir among the public. An online petition demanding their reunion has already attracted more than 75,000 signatures so far.
“Reunite Peggy and Molly: Don't Break Their 4-Year Bond,” read the title of the petition.
Molly was taken in by couple Juliette Wells and Reece Mortensen during the lockdown in 2020
“Peggy and Molly, a beautiful Staffy & Magpie who have been raised together on the Gold Coast for four years, share an unbreakable bond. This bond is not just emotional but also crucial to their well-being,” the petition said.
“We understand that circumstances change; however, we must prioritize the welfare of these innocent beings who rely on us for care. We urge those responsible for Peggy and Molly's separation to reconsider their decision in light of these facts,” the message added.
The uproar online led to Queensland Premier Steven Miles stepping in and saying government officials would work with Molly’s pet parents to make sure they had the required permits to keep the magpie in their family.
Thousands have signed the petition calling for Molly to be reunited with Peggy and the rest of her family
"What I'm most interested in here is what's in the best interests of that animal," Steven was quoted telling reporters.
"I think sometimes common sense needs to prevail, and in this instance, ensuring that they can legally take care of Molly is the best outcome for Molly as well as the family," he said.
"I don't want to see any of the rules broken, but there has to be a way within the rules to see Molly live out a happy life with the family," Steven added.