The Tasmanian devil, an iconic marsupial native to Tasmania, is known for its fierce reputation and distinctive vocalizations. Despite its intimidating name and aggressive displays, the direct threat it poses to humans is often misunderstood. While capable of powerful bites, these animals are generally shy and reclusive, with serious incidents involving humans being extremely rare.
Physical Traits and Temperament
Tasmanian devils are the largest surviving carnivorous marsupials, characterized by their muscular build, black fur, and a strong, broad head. Males can weigh up to 12 kg (26 pounds) and stand around 30 cm (12 inches) at the shoulder, with females being slightly smaller. Their powerful jaws can open up to an 80-degree angle, allowing them to exert the strongest bite force relative to their body size among all living predatory land mammals. This bite force, reaching over 553 Newtons, enables them to crush bones and consume nearly all of their prey.
Despite these physical capabilities, Tasmanian devils are typically shy and solitary. Their screeches, growls, and wide-mouthed “yawns” are often displays of fear or anxiety, rather than unprovoked aggression. They use these vocalizations and displays, along with a pungent odor, as defensive mechanisms or during competition over food. While they can be aggressive during feeding frenzies or territorial disputes with other devils, they naturally avoid human contact.
Real-World Encounters and Triggers
Direct attacks by Tasmanian devils on humans are extremely rare, with fatalities virtually unheard of. These animals generally avoid people, preferring to flee rather than engage in confrontation. When an incident does occur, it is almost always because the devil feels provoked, threatened, cornered, or is defending its young. Bites typically happen during close handling, such as by wildlife carers, or when individuals attempt to interact with a trapped or injured animal.
Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD), a transmissible cancer, has severely impacted devil populations and can alter their behavior. While the disease affects their ability to eat and is often fatal, it can also lead to disorientation, potentially increasing defensive actions if approached. However, even with DFTD, attacks on humans remain uncommon. In areas where devils are habituated to human presence, like wildlife parks, there have been isolated reports of minor bites, often linked to food sources near human activity.
Safe Practices Around Tasmanian Devils
Encountering a Tasmanian devil in the wild is uncommon due to their nocturnal habits and reclusive nature. If one is sighted, it is important to observe the animal from a respectful distance and avoid any attempts to approach, feed, or interact with it. Their behavior can be unpredictable, especially if they perceive a threat.
Should you encounter an injured or sick Tasmanian devil, do not handle the animal directly. Instead, contact local wildlife authorities or rescue organizations, as they are equipped to manage such situations safely and effectively. To minimize attracting devils to human-inhabited areas, ensure all food and waste are securely stored and disposed of. Driving cautiously at night in Tasmania’s rural areas also helps reduce roadkill, which can attract devils to roadsides.