The Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii) is a carnivorous marsupial of the family Dasyuridae, now found in the wild only on the Australian island state of Tasmania.
- Although it usually is solitary, it sometimes eats with other devils and defecates in a communal location. Unlike most other dasyurids, the devil thermoregulates effectively and is active during the middle of the day without overheating. Despite its rotund appearance, the devil is capable of surprising speed and endurance, and can climb trees and swim across rivers.
- Devils are mostly black but usually have white markings on the rump or the chest. Adult male devils are usually bigger than the females. They stand about 30 centimetres (or 12 inches) high at the shoulder and weigh up to 14 kilograms.
- No, devils are not dangerous. They do not attack people, although they will defend themselves if they’re attacked or trapped.
- The Tasmanian Devil is today classified as an endangered species, protected since 1941, and now their population is once again rapidly decreasing, mainly due to devil facial tumour disease.
In a video below you will see a a baby Tasmanian devil was having a ball playing with his keeper. He kept chasing the man without a care in the world. Not to mention how adorable it looks!
