Tasmanian Devil

About This Species

The Tasmanian Devil (Sarcophilus harrisii) is the world’s largest surviving marsupial carnivore, known for its fierce nature and iconic vocalisations. Once widespread across mainland Australia, these incredible creatures are now found in Tasmania and some Aussie Ark wild sanctuaries on the Australian mainland. Facing significant threats to their survival, including Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD), the Tasmanian Devil’s population has drastically declined.

Typically weighing between 8–14 kg (males) or 5–9 kg (females), with males reaching lengths of around 65 cm and females 57 cm, these stocky creatures are built for strength and endurance. Despite their formidable appearance, they have a relatively short lifespan, living 5–6 years in the wild and up to 8 years in captivity. Conservation efforts are crucial to protecting this unique species and ensuring its future.

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Threats They Face

Tasmanian devils face a critical threat to their survival:

Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD): DFTD is a highly contagious and devastating form of cancer that has become the primary threat to the survival of the Tasmanian Devil. First detected in 1996, this transmissible cancer is passed between individuals primarily through biting, which is common during the devils’ aggressive interactions, such as fighting or mating. As devils often engage in these behaviours, the disease spreads rapidly, particularly among populations nearby.

DFTD causes large, disfiguring tumours, typically around the face and mouth, which can interfere with feeding and breathing, and it is fatal. Since its emergence, DFTD has had a catastrophic impact on the wild population, decimating numbers over 90%. The disease has spread across Tasmania, and despite various efforts to contain it, DFTD continues to be a major challenge for conservationists.
Historical Persecution: In the 1800s, Tasmanian Devils were heavily persecuted by farmers who believed they posed a significant threat to livestock, particularly sheep. This led to widespread efforts to eliminate the species, including shooting, poisoning, and trapping. Farmers viewed the devils as competitors for the same food sources, especially in areas where livestock were raised near wild habitats. Despite there being little evidence to support the idea that Tasmanian Devils were a major threat to livestock, this perception persisted and contributed to the decline in Tasmanian Devil populations.

DFTD poses a severe threat to the species’ long-term survival and has significantly impacted Tasmania’s ecosystem.

How Aussie Ark Is Helping

Aussie Ark, building upon the success of Devil Ark, operates as Australia’s largest mainland breeding facility for DFTD-free Tasmanian Devils. Their efforts are crucial for the species’ survival:

Creating an Insurance Population: Aussie Ark focuses on establishing and maintaining a robust, DFTD-free insurance population on the mainland. Aussie Ark is currently the most successful breeding program for Tasmanian Devils on mainland Australia. This insurance breeding program safeguards against further declines in the wild due to DFTD.
Cost-Effective Conservation: Aussie Ark’s approach is highly cost-effective. Raising Tasmanian Devils at a significantly lower cost than other organisations allows for a greater conservation impact with available resources.
Hands-Off Approach: Aussie Ark prioritises a hands-off approach, allowing Tasmanian Devils to maintain natural wild behaviours, which increases their chances of survival upon potential reintroduction to Tasmania.

Aussie Ark’s work is essential for securing the long-term future of Tasmanian Devils.

How You Can Help

You can make a real difference! At Aussie Ark, we’re working tirelessly to protect Australia’s unique wildlife and restore their habitats. From Tasmanian Devils to Eastern Quolls, your support helps us care for endangered animals and preserve the beauty of our native bushland.