The Tasmanian devil (TD) has a fearsome reputation, largely due to its loud, unearthly screeches and the famous cartoon depiction of a whirling, ravenous beast. Early European settlers named the animal the “devil” after hearing its spine-chilling guttural growls and seeing its defensive posturing. This image of ferocity is largely exaggerated, as the species is actually quite timid in the wild. Despite their powerful appearance, Tasmanian devils rarely attack humans. A healthy, unprovoked devil will almost always flee from people.
Temperament and Likelihood of Attack
Tasmanian devils are naturally shy, nocturnal animals whose primary activity occurs under the cover of darkness, minimizing encounters with humans. As opportunistic scavengers, their diet consists mainly of carrion, small mammals, birds, and insects. They do not view humans as a food source, and their typical response to a human presence is to retreat into dense bush or a den.
The notion of the Tasmanian devil as an aggressive predator does not reflect its typical behavior in the wild. They are solitary for most of the year, and their impressive vocal displays are often used as a bluff to avoid physical conflict, especially when competing for food. Documented instances of a devil attacking a healthy adult human are virtually non-existent, as they prefer to run away than engage in confrontation.
Their powerful jaws, which can crush bone with the strongest relative bite force of any living mammal, are an adaptation for consuming carrion completely. While they possess the physical capability to inflict a serious bite, this strength is reserved for feeding or highly specific defensive scenarios.
Causes of Defensive or Aggressive Behavior
Tasmanian devils will defend themselves vigorously if they feel threatened or cornered. Aggressive behavior is a defensive reaction, not an unprovoked attack, and typically occurs when the animal is trapped, such as in a shed or cage. This instinctual defense mechanism is triggered by fear, prompting the animal to use its powerful jaws against the perceived threat.
A devil that is injured, sick, or suffering from Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD) may also lash out. Illness can impair their natural shyness and cautious demeanor, making them more unpredictable or prone to defensive bites if approached. In these cases, the animal is compromised and its normal fear response is often replaced by a desperate need for self-preservation.
Aggression is also displayed during a communal feeding frenzy around a large carcass. Although the aggression is primarily directed at other devils to establish a pecking order, a human who interferes could be bitten if the animal misdirects its focused intensity. Aggression also spikes during the breeding season, from February to April, when males fight each other for access to females.
How to Avoid Encounters and Ensure Safety
Preventing unwanted encounters centers on removing attractants and respecting their space, particularly at night when they are active. Because they are scavengers, do not leave food scraps, pet food, or accessible garbage outside, as this draws them into residential and camping areas. Securing pets, especially small dogs and cats, is also advisable overnight, as a devil may perceive them as competition or potential prey.
Never attempt to approach, feed, or handle a Tasmanian devil, even if it appears docile, sick, or injured. If a devil is found on your property, such as under a deck or in a shed, leave it alone and ensure it has a clear, unobstructed exit path. The animal will almost certainly leave on its own accord after nightfall.
If an encounter occurs while walking, remain calm and slowly back away to give the animal space to retreat. If a devil appears lethargic, thin, or disoriented, contact the appropriate Tasmanian wildlife authorities instead of attempting a rescue or intervention yourself. This practice ensures both human safety and the proper care of the protected wildlife.