Animal sanctuary announce death of 'beloved' emu, Irwin
The animal's death follows an extensive search for him in and around Malmesbury
After extensive searches, Malmesbury Animal Sanctuary have confirmed their beloved Emu, Irwin, has died.
Bosses say he stumbled into the river, and because it happened at night, and just after heavy rainfall, he didn't get the chance to make it to safety.
They say his death 'concurs with our initial theory', which they concluded before finding him, which was that the emus at the sanctuary were chasing each other around, and then Irwin slipped, and stumbled into the river.
Gareth and Mark from the sanctuary helped search the river and found him the other side of Truckle Bridge.
They've also thanked members Sam, Rob, Russ, Rich who also helped out with the search over the weekend.
'His absence always felt'
Sharing the news, the Sanctuary said: "In normal circumstances this shouldn't have been a problem as emus are very adept at swimming, however it occurred at night - a time during which their vision is not best suited.
"And due to the recent heavy rainfall the river had broken its banks and run into the field making the area sodden, and very slippery. We believe due to these conditions, and perhaps shock, he simply didn't have sufficient opportunity to right himself and swim to safety. In calmer weather he would easily have swum for the bank, and made it back to dry land safe and sound.
"Whatever the case we sincerely hope Irwin didn't suffer for long. The thought of his struggle will always be with us. His absence always felt.
"We simply don't have words to explain how sad this makes us all feel. Not only our fabulously dedicated team of volunteers who work tirelessly for the animals wellbeing, but also the Malmesbury community as a whole.
"We extend our heartfelt, and sincere gratitude to everybody who sent us best wishes, reposted on social media, and searched with us. Your spirit of hope and positive energy has given us much strength this past week."
They've called Irwin, who was around seven years old, a 'jolly emu who loved cuddles'.
The sanctuary also say he loved cold showers in the hot summers - where he'd roll over before standing up, shaking himself dry, before looking to the keepers for 'another dowsing'.
'Irwin gave us much love'
He lived with Cha Cha, Emmy, Momo, and Doble - whilst Boomer now has the job of being the most senior emu at the sanctuary.
Bosses added: "Irwin gave us much love, and lived happily at The Malmesbury Animal Sanctuary.
"He will never be forgotten. Irwin will live on in all our hearts.
"So long Irwin. Precious boy."
The rescue of Irwin
