After over a week of anticipation, the Australian Reptile Park has named its newest addition - a beloved wombat joey.
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After sifting through thousands of name submissions online, the team officially named the adorable wombat joey Hope.
After hours of searching through suggestions from the public, staff members found it very fitting with everything happening in the world to name her Hope, as she continues to bring smiles to faces all over the world and lifts spirits when people see her cute little face.
The name Hope was one of the most frequent suggestions on the initial video introduction of the little wombat which received more than half a million views.
The adorable baby wombat had a rough start to life and was found still in the pouch, after a car hit and killed her mother.
Thankfully a family passing by checked the pouch and discovered her tiny, scared face staring back at her.
The wombat was brought to the Australian Reptile Park where general manager Tim Faulkner became her new carer, providing her with around the clock care and all the cuddles she wanted.
"The Australian Reptile Park is tremendously thankful for all of the wonderful entries people sent in, and how they have embraced little Hope," general manager Tim Faulkner said.
"As soon as I saw the name, I knew it was perfect, she is the perfect little sign of hope for Australian wildlife and the world in these unprecedented times.
"I can only say that I hope that Hope brings smiles to those who see her online and one day people will be able to come and meet her when this all blows over.
"Raising awareness for Australian wildlife is so imperative to us as wild numbers of species are sadly declining.
"Australia has the worst mammal extinction rate on the planet, and we need to do what we can to change this, especially since the tragic fires Australia faced recently."
For now, Hope the wombat will remain in the care of Tim Faulkner and Australian Reptile Park staff members until she is old enough to be re-released back into the wild.
She has earned a reputation with the team as a vibrant, happy, healthy little wombat.
Keepers have fallen head over heels in love with her and cannot wait to watch her grow.
While doors to The Australian Reptile Park remain closed, they are 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 at 2pm in the afternoon.
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