I ENJOY looking at the animals in Blackbutt Reserve, especially the birds in the large aviary. The displays are educational and I try not to think about the animals' captivity. However, we are responsible for the welfare of these wild animals. Today I saw the wombat marching back and forth along the fence in what I think is the forlorn hope of finding an escape route. Does this large mammal have nothing to do except eat and sleep?
All animals in captivity should be able to perform at least some of their essential activities. In my opinion keeping a wombat in these conditions amounts to animal cruelty. There is no excuse in my view, and I believe the wombat should be retired immediately.
