Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis have named an eastern grey kangaroo joey at the Australia Zoo.
Cwtch, named after the Welsh word for ‘cuddle’, made her Instagram debut on Robert Irwin’s Instagram account, and the Australian conservationist and zookeeper revealed that he’d had a bit of royal help in naming her.
“I absolutely love the name ‘Cwtch’,” Irwin said in a statement. “It couldn’t be more perfect for this little joey.”
In his Instagram video, Irwin said “at this age, they love a cuddle and they spend most of their time inside that pouch with their mum.”
Irwin is a long-time friend of Prince William and Catherine, and has been a Global Ambassador for the Earthshot Prize for several years. On the Earthshot Prize’s website, Irwin is quoted as saying, “The Earthshot Prize is a beacon of hope for all of us who care about the environment and about our ability to ensure a liveable future for ourselves and future generations.
“Healthy oceans, ecosystems, and species equal a healthy planet, and The Earthshot Prize recognizes the importance of investing and helping grow solutions that protect these critical resources.”
Irwin helped host activities for the 2024 Earthshot Prize in Cape Town, but missed the 2025 edition in Brazil due to appearing on Dancing with the Stars. Prince William video called him during rehearsals for an episode which aired the same time as the ceremony.
“We’re missing you, Robert. Whilst your twinkle toes are going off elsewhere, I need you down here,” William joked before wishing him luck. Irwin would go on to win with his professional partner, Witney Carson, and William and Catherine later commented on their Instagram post: “Congratulations Robert and Witney!”
Cwtch is still growing and gaining confidence, according to the Australia Zoo, but will eventually become a regular presence for visitors as she develops these skills.
“I am so thankful to have received special assistance from Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis with the naming,” Irwin said. “Cwtch is already stealing hearts, and I hope she inspires people to fall in love with wildlife and want to help protect it.”
