The northern hairy nosed wombat is one of the most endangered species in the world. Only 138 exist, and none exist in captivity. They are really rare.
Xstrata is one of the biggest mining companies in the world. They now own the northern hairy nosed wombat... or should I say the Xstrata northern hairy nosed wombat. As part of the millions they are spending on the wombat, they get 'exclusive' naming rights, like Etihad stadium. Something that humans haven't really had since the Garden of Eden with Adam. Books, clothing, backpacks, .. anything northern hairy nosed wombat is now Xstrata.
Their investment mainly goes to the development of a second colony of wombats, located near St. George, Queensland, which has helped to increase numbers in the last 2 years by about 20.
I think it's one of the most bizarre tie-ins in the world. I can understand home loans and stadiums, but wombats and mining? What do the mining company get out of it? 138 wombats can barely do much heavy labour. They don't seem to be the most resilient of species either.
I think the wombats do get a bit of benefit from it, a trendy little Xstrata logo to have branded on their backs or somewhere conspicuous. Maybe a guest starring spot in some recruitment videos. Anyway, hopefully this is just the start of more businesses owning some animals.
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