National Threatened Species Day 2020

Monday of this week, was Threatened Species Day. It marks the day in 1936 when the last known thylacine died at Beaumaris Zoo in Hobart - only two months after the species was granted protected status! This tragedy is a powerful reminder that we simply cannot wait until a species is on the brink of extinction to act.

Eighty-four years on and modern conservation zoos have evolved from living museums to leading agencies in preventing extinction. From the work of our hospitals in times of crisis like the recent bushfires to embedding cutting edge science in our recovery and rewilding programs, Taronga’s unique skillsets are powerful assets in the fight against species extinction. But we are often the last line of defence.

Australia holds the unenviable record of the highest mammalian extinction rate in recent history, so Threatened Species Day is a time to reflect on how a similar fate awaits so many Australian native plants and animals unless appropriate action is taken, and taken early. Taronga recognises that we all have a role to play in this, which is why when you visit our two zoos, not only are you contributing to a not-for-profit that is For the Wild, you will also be inspired to make better choices in your daily life for a thriving planet.

On Threatened Species Day each year, Taronga makes the commitment once more to inspire change, lead in saving wildlife and act to create a thriving planet.

#forthewild #nationalthreatenedspeciesday"