Southern Hairy-Nosed Wombat - Hamlet

This shot was taken on Tuesday, one day before Hamlet was euthanized due to failing health. I’m glad to have gotten one last chance in seeing the oldest living wombat in the world. I just wish it was under better circumstances.

As I mentioned in a different post, Hamlet was looking very unwell. He couldn’t walk long distances, as his right hind leg was not able to hold him up. He’d take a few steps before dropping down on his right hind leg, and dragging it around. It was sad to see, as it was clear he was struggling just to get around. Keepers had a hard time calling him to the off exhibit area, as he struggled to move around.

What I didn’t mention in my earlier post is that while watching Hamlet, he laid down flat on the ground, while the Keeper was calling him to the back. He seemed like he was making his way to the back, but just couldn’t make. The Keeper came into the exhibit to check on him, and he was very unresponsive to her calls and touch. She petted him for a bit before leaving the exhibit and letting him get some much needed rest.

I eventually left the Pavilion, hoping all would be okay with Hamlet. Sadly, he didn’t get better and was euthanized. The good thing in this is that Hamlet will continue to live on through his descendants, one of which is Matilba, his great-granddaughter. If we’re lucky, Matilba and Arthur will have offspring of their own, continuing Hamlet’s legacy.

I'm really going to miss Hamlet but like you said if we are lucky Matilba and Arthur will continue his legacy. Wouldn't it be fantastic to find out Matilba has a joey and its a male they can name after his great great grandfather?