Benjamin, the last known living thylacine, resided at the Hobart Zoo in Tasmania, Australia. Captured in 1933, Benjamin became an emblematic figure of the species, which faced severe threats from hunting, habitat loss, and diseases. By the time of his death in a zoo enclosure on September 7, 1936, it became evident that the thylacine was on the brink of extinction. Benjamin lived out his final days alone, a poignant reminder of the impact humans had on vulnerable wildlife. His solitary cage highlighted a significant turning point in conservation awareness.

The thylacine, also known as the Tasmanian tiger, was native to Tasmania, mainland Australia, and New Guinea. By the early 20th century, aggressive hunting policies and a lack of understanding of the thylacine's ecological role placed the species in jeopardy. Efforts to protect the thylacine were too late, and Benjamin's death marked the official extinction of the species. In the ensuing years, there were various reports of sightings and unconfirmed claims of thylacines in the wild, but none substantiated. Benjamin's story serves as an important lesson in conservation, raising questions about humanity's role in wildlife preservation that continue to resonate today.

The loss of the last thylacine also brought attention to the broader issues of species extinction and the need for preservation efforts. Scientists, conservationists, and the public began to recognize the urgency of protecting endangered species and their habitats. Moreover, Benjamin's image became a powerful symbol for the conservation movement in the 20th century, highlighting the necessity of safeguarding biodiversity for future generations. A taxidermied Benjamin is now displayed at the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, serving as a reminder of a species forever lost to those indifferent to the value of our natural world.