According to necropsy results, she had bronchopneumonia, an inflammation of the lungs that can result in sudden death in marsupials. 

Unfortunately for Makiki, she displayed no physical symptoms until it was too late. “Our keepers observe our animals closely on a daily basis for behavioral changes and any signs of illness,” says Zoo Manager Kevin Hertell. “In this case, Makiki crashed very suddenly. Our veterinary team did everything they could. They were able to determine that there was congestion in Makiki’s lungs, but unfortunately she passed away later that evening while recovering from anesthesia.”

Happy Hollow is lauded for being the most successful zoo for the breeding of the Parma wallaby species. As an Association of Zoos and Aquariums accredited facility for over 26 years, Happy Hollow participates in the Parma wallaby Species Survival Plan (SSP) programs to help create sustainable populations of this threatened species. Native to Australia, Parma wallabies were once thought to be extinct until a small population was discovered in 1967.

Since 1994, twenty-eight Parma wallabies have been born at Happy Hollow. During her time at the Zoo, Makiki gave birth to three joeys.

Currently, Happy Hollow is home to five Parma wallabies, and three juveniles will soon make their way to other facilities that participate in the Parma wallaby Species Survival Plan program. 

“We are dedicated to continuing our participation in this program,” says Zoo Curator, Heather Vrzal. “As Australia is being ravaged by the worst wildfires seen in decades, it’s more important than ever that we work together on conservation, threatened species recovery, and breeding programs.” 

As the fires rage on, zoos and aquariums across the world are taking action to provide support. For those who would like to contribute, Zoos Victoria is running a Bushfire Emergency Wildlife Fund. https://www.zoo.org.au/fire-fund/  

All funds raised will be used for critical care and long-term recovery of Australian Wildlife.