On 07 September 1936, the last known Tasmanian Tiger (Thylacine) died in captivity at the Beaumaris Zoo in Hobart, Tasmania.
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The animal, often called the Tasmanian Tiger because of the dark stripes across its back, was actually a marsupial carnivore, not related to tigers or wolves.
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The species once roamed across Australia, Tasmania, and New Guinea, but by the early 20th century it was confined to Tasmania.
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Hunting (encouraged by government bounties), habitat destruction, and competition from introduced species like dogs contributed heavily to its decline.
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The last thylacine, nicknamed “Benjamin”, died likely due to exposure after being locked out of its sheltered sleeping quarters during a cold Tasmanian night.
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The extinction was officially recognized decades later, but 7 September is now remembered as National Threatened Species Day in Australia, to raise awareness about conserving endangered wildlife.
