Tasmanian devil Facts
The Tasmanian devil is a carnivorous marsupial about the size of a small dog, with black fur, a loud screech and one of the strongest bites for its body size.
- Class
- Mammal
- Scientific name
- Sarcophilus harrisii
- Conservation status
- Endangered (IUCN)
About the tasmanian devil
Devils once lived across mainland Australia but died out there about 3,500 years ago, and today they survive only on Tasmania. Since the thylacine went extinct in 1936, the devil has been the largest meat-eating marsupial in the world. It is stocky and muscular, with a sharp sense of smell and a strong odor, and it both hunts live prey and scavenges carrion.
Though it looks round and slow, a devil can run fast for long stretches, climb trees and swim across rivers. It also handles heat well and stays active in the middle of the day. Devils mostly live alone but sometimes gather to eat together. Males fight over females and guard their mates closely.
Did you know?
- A newborn Tasmanian devil weighs only about 0.20 g.
- Females give birth to 20 to 30 young, but the pouch has only four nipples.
- In palawa kani, the Tasmanian devil is called purinina.
Questions about the tasmanian devil
Where do Tasmanian devils live?
Only on the island of Tasmania. They vanished from mainland Australia about 3,500 years ago.
Are Tasmanian devils endangered?
Yes. The IUCN lists the Tasmanian devil as endangered.
Sources
- Wikidata Q134964, checked October 8, 2026
- Wikipedia: Tasmanian devil, checked October 8, 2026
Facts are compiled from these open sources and rewritten in our own words. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.