In these uncertain times, there is nothing that can bring smiles more than a new, cute baby wombat. The Australian Reptile Park delivered just that with the news just before Easter of the arrival of a new baby wombat.
And the Park has launched a fun initiative to keep the smiles going – a naming competition.
People all over the world are being asked to send their name suggestions for the new arrival to the Park’s Facebook page.
The baby wombat had a rough start to life and was found still in the pouch, with her mum having been hit and killed by a car.
A family passing by checked the pouch and discovered her.
They delivered the tiny, scared animal to the Park, where manager Tim Faulkner became her new carer and surrogate mum, providing her with around the clock care and all the cuddles she wants.
Faulkner said cars are one of the biggest threats to Aussie wildlife.
“So many animals are killed by vehicles each year and if we all take a little more care whilst driving, we can hopefully decrease the number,” he said.
“We wanted to allow the public to find a name for our newest addition.
“In these times where people are having to distance themselves, I thought it would be nice to do something that involves the community (virtually) and see what names they can come up with.
“Wombats are very special to Australia and I can’t wait to find the perfect name for her.”
The wombat will remain in the care of Faulkner and staff until she is old enough to be re-released back into the wild.
Faulkner said she was vibrant, happy, healthy and growing.
While it is closed during the coronavirus pandemic, The Australian Reptile Park is currently posting online educational videos and live streams each day to help keep those at home educated on wildlife and conservation.
The educational videos premiere at 10am each morning with a daily livestream occurring at 2pm each afternoon.
Source: Media release, Apr 9, 2020. Australian Reptile Park