Where to see a Tasmanian Devil

Although 400 years ago it is thought to have also roamed and become extinct on the mainland, the Tasmanian devil is unique to Tasmania. This fascinating creature is the world’s largest carnivorous marsupial. Don’t let their squat, little black furred bodies fool you. They have powerful jaws, sharp teeth and claws, and a variety of screeches to scare off the most fearless competitor.

A protected species and nocturnal hunter, the Tassie devils’ habitat extends from Tasmania’s suburban fringes to the wilderness, but the species is now endangered. Like a lot of wildlife, they become roadkill, compete with foxes and other ferals and their species is sadly prone to a terminal facial cancer. Breeding programs and wildlife protection campaigns focus their efforts on saving this precious Tasmanian icon.

Being nocturnal and shy, it isn’t guaranteed you will see a Tassie Devil. That’s why some tours spend time at one of the wildlife sanctuaries that support these endangered devils, and many other of Australia’s heartwarming animals.

To see a Tasmanian devil, choose a tour that takes you to East Coast Natureworld at Bicheno on Tasmania’s East Coast. Here you will find 150 acres of natural parkland and lagoons devoted to the sanctuary of an array of Tasmanian mammals. Devil World is devoted to sharing knowledge about the Tassie Devil, their breeding program, and offers interactive and interpretive activities. And of course, you can get up close and personal with the little devils. You can also see Australia’s favourite animals, the wombat, koala, wallabies and kangaroos, as well as bird life here.

Bonorong Wildlife Park, near Hobart, is another place tours stop to see Tasmanian Devils and other Australian wildlife. The endangered Tasmanian devil, eastern quoll, Tasmanian pademelon and Tasmanian bettong are a specific focus of their protection, rehabilitation and breeding program. Here you can meet the elusive Tassie devil, participate in a Devil talk and also meet an array of Australian wildlife and birds.

Another reason to tour Tasmania? We think so.