Baby Tassie Devil's First Christmas

Wildlife Ranger Riley Tydeman acts as both surrogate ‘mum’ & Aussie Ark’s Santa as he keeps a close eye on the mischievous joeys

Conservation organisation Aussie Ark is thrilled to share the festive season with its newest Devil joeys, Newy and Rumble, with the brothers having fun playing in tinsel, chasing baubles, and even knocking down the Christmas tree!

Newy and Rumble were first introduced to the world in October, when Wildlife Ranger Riley Tydeman was mentored by Operations Manager Dean Reid – Australia’s famed ‘Devil Whisperer’, to hand-raise the joeys. It was the first time Mr Tydeman had cared for Devil joeys, and a huge responsibility.

Newy and Rumble are now seven months old and thriving. Wherever Mr Tydeman goes, they go too. This includes decorating the Aussie Ark team house for the festive season.

Devils are naturally curious and will eat anything. So sparkly tinsel delighted the youngsters, and any loose object was a potential meal. Mr Tydeman keeps a close eye on them to ensure they stay safe while they have fun, and it’s a busy time!

“Sharing Christmas with the Devil brothers is wonderful,” Mr Tydeman said. “They’re so brave and inquisitive, and everything’s a game. I’m laughing out loud constantly. Being their guardian is the best Christmas present ever!”

Mr Tydeman said, “One day they’ll be big and tough and much more dignified” and will join Aussie Ark’s breeding and rewilding program, helping save their species from extinction.

“But for now, they’re just enjoying their innocence and youth!” Mr Tydeman said. “Ho ho ho!”

Aussie Ark wishes its donors, sponsors and supporters a very happy and prosperous Christmas season. And this giving season, please give the gift of survival! Support the next generation of endangered wildlife – like Newy and Rumble – and help Aussie Ark ensure a safe and wild future for all its baby animals by donating now at aussieark.org.au