Australian Wildlife Conservation

Tasmanian Devils

Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors supports the Save the Tasmanian Devil Program with its research into Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD), a deadly contagious cancer that has wiped out 90% of the devil population in some areas of Tasmania.

DFTD - The Facts:

• Approx. 15,000 - 50,000 devils remain in the wild
• Ulcerated tumours develop around the jaw and head of the devil, blocking the mouth, nose, ears and eyes
• The disease is fatal - unable to eat, a devil will ususally starve to death within 3-5 months
• Currently the western parts of Tasmania are disease-free, but above 70% of the state is affected
• The disease affects mostly older devils, leaving smaller populations that are younger and less experienced
• Immunity to the disease does not develop
• Devils are also under threat from foxes, habitat destruction, licensed culling, domestic pet attacks, and community fear and ignorance
• Wild Tasmanian devils will be extinct in as little as 10 to 15 years if nothing is done to save the species!