In the midst of one of Australia’s most drastic heatwaves yet, both locals and animals are feeling the heat and a group of cyclists experienced firsthand just how desperate some animals have become for a drink of water.
While cycling along a busy road near Adelaide in southern Australia on Friday, December 27, a group of locals came across a koala waiting in the middle of the road. In a cry for help the distressed little marsupial climbed onto one of the cyclist’s bikes in a desperate appeal for water.
According to The Independent, a cyclist by the name of Anna Heuseler managed to film the koala drinking water and posted it on Instagram. The temperature at the time of the incident was over 40 degrees Celcius and the group was blown away by the koala’s approach and how comfortable he was with the cyclists while they gave him water to drink.
“This koala walked right up to me as I was descending and climbed up onto my bike while I gave him water. Best thing to happen to me on a ride ever,”said Heuseler.
The moment was deeply touching for all involved and the koala drank more than his fill while the cyclists admired him and gave him a comforting stroke or two.
As the heatwave continues, intense fires and temperatures are plaguing Australia and wreaking havoc on the local natural wildlife. Nearly 800 homes have been destroyed by fires that have raged through the country over the past two months.
While many struggle against the high temperatures and the devastation they bring with them, locals are doing their best to protect and support koalas and other animals affected by the heat.
Picture: Instagram
