Woodland Park Zoo tree kangaroo recovers from arm amputation

A tree kangaroo at Woodland Park Zoo is recovering after veterinarians amputated her right arm because of a bacterial infection.

Poppy, a Matschie’s tree kangaroo who will turn three next month, underwent surgery last week after a CT scan showed the infection had spread.

Zoo staff first noticed a problem in late August when Poppy began holding up her right front foot. Veterinarians determined she had a bacterial infection in a bone in her forearm.

Despite treatment with antibiotics and pain medication, Poppy showed little improvement. Zoo officials said the infection is not contagious and poses no risk to other animals or people.

• Follow this link to read additional stories from KIRO 7

After further testing, her care team determined amputation was the best option.

“Poppy showed positive signs of healing, and we are cautiously optimistic that she can adjust to a new life with three limbs,” zoo veterinarian Dr. Laura St. Clair said.

Keepers said Poppy is adjusting well so far but will continue to be closely monitored as she heals.

Poppy arrived at Woodland Park Zoo in June through the Tree Kangaroo Species Survival Plan, a cooperative program aimed at protecting threatened and endangered species.