Japan's Oldest Koala, Equivalent to 90 in Human Years, Dies

The country's oldest koala died Wednesday at the age of 18 in Hyogo prefecture, in western Japan. According to a statement from Awaji Farm Park England Hill, a tourist facility on Awaji Island, her age was equivalent to approximately 90 human years, the Kyodo News agency reports.

The female koala, named Nozomi, died of gastrointestinal failure directly caused by her advanced age. In its official statement, the park described her as an exceptionally affectionate animal and a symbolic presence at the entire facility.

Nozomi was born in March 2008 at Yanchep National Park in Australia. She was brought to Japan in March 2011 to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the friendship agreement between Hyogo prefecture and the state of Western Australia. Since officially becoming the oldest living koala in Japan in November 2022, she has attracted a huge number of domestic and international tourists to the park.

Following her death, the title of Japan's oldest koala is now held by a 12-year-old male named Daichi, who is housed at the same zoo.

(max)