Learn about Tasmanian devils:
- Largest carnivorous marsupials.
- Used to occur across Australia. About 500 years ago, they were out-competed by dingos. Now they are only found on the island of Tasmania.
- Endangered. They are disappearing at an alarming rate due to devil facial tumor disease, a contagious and fatal cancer.
- They are nocturnal.
- Solitary scavengers. When several scavengers come upon the same carcass as once, they scream and growl for eating rights.
Four Tasmanian devils are moving into the ABQ BioPark Zoo on December 18, 2013. While the Tasmanian devils acclimate, they will be behind-the-scenes. Zookeepers will be working on introductions between the animals, and because they are nocturnal, increasing daytime activities. A public welcoming event will be held by the end of the year. Details to be announced.
The ABQ BioPark Zoo is one of only two zoos in the Unites States to house Tasmanian devils.
Our Actions Matter
Devil facial tumor disease (DFTD) is a serious threat to the future of Tasmanian devils. Some wild populations have decreased by 80 percent since the disease was first observed in 1996.
While scientists search for a cure, zoos and conservation facilities are raising Tasmanian devils in captivity. This healthy, cancer-free population is part of a breeding and reintroduction program to prevent extinction.
What can you do? Donate to save the Tasmanian devils.