Tasmania — famous for its unspoiled, snarling vistas — may soon lose its most famous snarling mascot: the Tasmanian Devil. Devil Facial Tumor Disease is sweeping through Tasmania’s devil population. It’s already killed more than 90% of adults in high density areas and it’s devastated half the population in medium-low density areas.
Now, some of the marsupials made famous by Taz are being relocated to Maria Island, a former penal colony, to avert their extinction by this contagious cancer. Advocates hope that if devils are wiped out on the Tasmanian mainland, the disease will die along with them, and the animals can then be safely reintroduced. Opponents fear the move could endanger rare birds and other animals on the island.
If you want to experience the devil virtually, check out this short video clip. How can something so cute be so creepy? If you want to see the devil in its natural habitat before it’s too late, have a look at Matthew Power’s trip report about his hike into this exotic wilderness, and see if it’s for you. Otherwise, begin planning your trip to Maria Island.