The Tasmanian devil is a marsupial known for its formidable reputation. This carnivorous creature has long captured human imagination. Its name reflects the perceptions of early observers.
The Island Home: Why “Tasmanian”
The “Tasmanian” part of the name refers to the animal’s only native habitat: the island of Tasmania, located off the southeastern coast of mainland Australia. While fossil evidence indicates these marsupials once inhabited mainland Australia, they became extinct there around 3,000 years ago. Their presence on Tasmania, separated by the Bass Strait, ensured their survival.
The “Devil” Unveiled: Characteristics Behind the Name
The “devil” moniker stems from characteristics early European settlers found unsettling. Their vocalizations are loud and varied, including screams, shrieks, snarls, growls, and grunting calls. These sounds, particularly heard at night, were unsettling to observers. When threatened, they bare sharp teeth, lunge, and growl, contributing to their perceived ferocity.
Their appearance also played a role. Tasmanian devils typically have dark brown to black fur, often with white patches on their chest or rump. They possess a stocky, muscular build with a large, broad head and powerful jaws. Their ears can turn red when agitated, and their sharp teeth and wide jaws create a formidable appearance.
The devil’s nocturnal habits and aggressive feeding behavior further cemented its reputation. They are active at night, scavenging on carrion and hunting small prey. When multiple devils converge on a large carcass, feeding frenzies occur, characterized by intense competition, loud vocalizations, and aggressive posturing. Their unsettling sounds, dark appearance, and fierce behavior led to their “devil-like” perception.
Early Encounters and the Naming
Early European settlers arriving in Tasmania encountered these animals, often hearing their piercing cries from the bush at night. These initial auditory experiences, combined with glimpses of their dark forms and aggressive demeanor, created a powerful impression. The settlers believed these sounds and behaviors appeared to originate from a demonic source. This led to the informal, yet widely adopted, name “devil.”
The first recorded European sighting of a Tasmanian devil was in 1642 by Dutch explorer Abel Tasman, who described them as “ugly, swarthy creatures.” However, it was during the early 19th century, with increased European settlement in Van Diemen’s Land (now Tasmania), that the name “Tasmanian devil” became firmly established. By 1830, early settlers even considered them a nuisance due to raids on poultry yards, leading to bounty schemes for their removal. Their frightening nocturnal cries, formidable appearance, and perceived ferocity solidified their common name.