Animals too display their gratitude- especially animals that have been domesticated. But that doesn’t in any way mean that wild animals aren’t capable of it. Also, it simply proves one thing- hugging is the universal sign of love, be it a human being or an animal.
And this brings us to Queen Abi, a kangaroo who never forgets to hug the sanctuary workers who nurtured her after her mother was killed. It has been quite some time that she has been a resident of Kangaroo Sanctuary, and she always hugs every single one of the staff. It is her way of showing gratitude.
This sanctuary, near Alice Springs, has since been a residence for a number of joeys, of whom Abigail is a huge favorite. The workers are kind, efficient, and well-trained in the care and nurturing of kangaroos which make them the parents that Abigail lost. Probably why she is so affectionate towards them- they were there when she was all alone and on the verge of death.
It is sad that human greed sometimes trumps an animal’s reason to survive. Since the sale of kangaroo body parts is a big booming industry in Australia, funding a major section of the employment, many authorities are willing to look the other way round.
Let’s hope that Abigail lives a long, healthy life and the workers at Kangaroo Sanctuary keep up the good work that they have been doing so far.