Tasmanian Devil
Scientific name: Sarcophilus harrisii
Conservation Status: Endangered
Come and hear the roars of our tassie devils
Symbio Wildlife Park is home to a small colony of Tasmanian devils, an iconic Australian marsupial that has captured the hearts of people around the world. These fascinating creatures are known for their distinctive black colour, fierce temperament, and powerful jaws. Visitors to Symbio Wildlife Park can witness these incredible animals up close and learn about the conservation efforts being made to protect them.
ABOUT
The Tasmanian devil is a unique and iconic marsupial found only in the wilds of Tasmania. These fierce-looking creatures have powerful jaws that can deliver one of the strongest bites relative to body size in the animal kingdom. Their impressive bite strength allows them to crush through the bones of their prey. Tasmanian devils are also known for their distinctive growling and screeching vocalizations, which they use to communicate with other devils. Despite their tough exterior, Tasmanian devils are unfortunately listed as endangered due to a contagious facial tumour disease that has greatly impacted their populations in the wild. Conservation efforts are underway to protect this unique species and ensure their survival for generations to come.
DIET
Tasmanian devils are carnivorous marsupials and the largest carnivorous marsupials in the world. Their diet mainly consists of small to medium-sized animals, such as wallabies, possums, wombats, and various species of birds. They are also known to scavenge on carcasses of larger animals, such as kangaroos, and even eat smaller devils if food is scarce. Their strong jaws and sharp teeth allow them to consume every part of their prey, including the bones and fur. Tasmanian devils are opportunistic hunters and scavengers, and their diet can vary depending on the availability of prey in their habitat. They are known to be voracious eaters, consuming up to 40% of their body weight in a single meal, and can go long periods without eating if necessary.
Tasmanian Devil
Fun Facts
- They have a reputation for being fierce and aggressive, but in reality, they are mostly nocturnal and shy animals that prefer to avoid confrontation.
- Tasmanian devils have a unique way of communicating with each other. They produce a range of vocalizations, including growls, snarls, and screams, which they use to warn other devils or to establish dominance.
- They have very strong immune systems, which enables them to resist diseases that would be fatal to other animals.
- Tasmanian devils are also known for their unusual breeding habits. Female devils give birth to up to 50 tiny joeys, which they carry in a pouch on their belly. Only a few of these joeys will survive to adulthood.
- Tasmanian devils are endangered due to a contagious cancer called devil facial tumor disease. Efforts are being made to save the species, including captive breeding programs and research into a vaccine.
YOU SMELLY DEVIL-ANIMAL ARMORY FROM NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC, UPLOADED BY NAT GEO WILD ON YOUTUBE (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HIyTffLW4yo)
If you are looking for more unforgettable experiences, we have a range of other close encounters that you won’t want to miss. With so many amazing close encounters to choose from, there is something for everyone at Symbio Wildlife Park.
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