There has been a dramatic twist in the story of a magpie that forged an unlikely friendship with two Staffordshire bull terriers in Queensland.
Molly was taken in by Gold Coast couple Juliette Wells and Reece Mortensen who care for her but do not cage her or force her to stay inside.
They document the bird’s relationship with their dog Peggy and Peggy’s daughter Ruby on Instagram, where their page has more than 700,000 followers.
But there was a public outcry when Molly was seized by the Department of Environment and Innovation (DESI) amid allegations that the bird was being “kept unlawfully”.
After Molly and Peggy’s story was reported around the world, Queensland Premier Steven Miles weighed in on the controversy.
On Thursday Mr Miles released a statement saying that Ms Wells and Mr Mortensen would be able to keep Molly if they undergo appropriate training.
“The environment department stands ready to train Molly’s parents to be wildlife carers, to get that certification, so Molly can be reunited with the family,” the premier said.
“What I’m most interested in here is what’s in the best interests of that animal, and if the department can work with the family to reunite them in a way that is legal, I would support that.
“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.
“I think if you look at the story there is a better outcome possible.
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 her family.”
Speaking to A Current Affair on Wednesday night, Ms Wells and Mr Mortensen said their house has become “so quiet” without Molly around.
The couple reiterated the bird could come and go from their house as he pleased, and there were no issues between Molly, Peggy and the Staffy’s puppy, Ruby.