Thyme, Tasmanian devil at the Columbus Zoo, dies at 5 years old

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – A Tasmanian devil described as a cherished member of the Columbus Zoo who had an infectious love for life has died.

Thyme, a 5-year-old Tasmanian devil, died after facing health issues that may have been age-related, the Columbus Zoo announced on Facebook Wednesday. Tasmanian devils have a life expectancy of around 5 to 6 years. 

“From her early days as a fierce, fiery baby to her later years as a trusting and loving adult, Thyme taught us invaluable lessons about her species and left an indelible mark on our hearts,” the zoo said.

The energetic and curious marsupial was a gentle soul with a fiery spirit who “captured the hearts of everyone she encountered,” the zoo said. When Thyme wasn’t basking in the sun's rays or playfully exploring her surroundings, she enjoyed dragging paper into her nest box and snuggling up in a cozy lawn bag. 

Thyme originally came to the Columbus Zoo from Tasmania in 2019 through the Save the Tasmanian Devil Program. Thyme was the last member of the original Tasmanian devil family at the zoo, which consisted of Thyme, Sprout and Mustard. 

Pathology reports are still pending, but the zoo said Thyme seemingly did not respond to treatment for "discomfort she appeared to be in." While Thyme’s beloved presence cannot be replaced, the Columbus Zoo states it is working to bring in more Tasmanian devils soon.