The Tasmanian Devil, a marsupial indigenous to the island of Tasmania, is known for its evocative common name. This name, suggesting a fearsome nature, originated from the animal’s distinctive characteristics and the reactions of early European observers. Its physical attributes, startling vocalizations, and intense behaviors all contributed to its designation.
Distinctive Physical Traits and Sounds
The Tasmanian Devil possesses a stocky, muscular build, typically weighing between 4 kg and 14 kg and standing about 30 cm tall. Its dark brown to black fur, sometimes with white patches on the chest or rump, contributes to its somewhat menacing appearance. These creatures also have a large head and powerful jaws that allow them to generate one of the strongest bites relative to body mass among all mammals.
The devil’s vocalizations are also notable and played a significant role in its naming. They emit a range of unsettling sounds, including piercing screams, harsh growls, snarls, and coughs. These loud noises can be heard from a considerable distance during their nocturnal activities.
Aggressive Behaviors and Habits
Tasmanian Devils are primarily nocturnal, emerging at night to forage for food and typically sheltering in dens during the day. While generally solitary, they frequently converge on large carcasses, leading to intense feeding frenzies. During these communal meals, competition for food is fierce, characterized by loud squabbles, aggressive displays, and biting.
Their powerful jaws enable them to consume nearly an entire carcass, including bones and fur, acting as efficient scavengers. When threatened or challenged, devils are known to bare their sharp teeth, lunge, and emit their distinctive growls and screeches. Although their wide gape can appear threatening, it is often a display of fear rather than outright aggression.
The Naming by Early Settlers
The common name “Tasmanian Devil” emerged from the experiences of early European settlers who arrived on the island. These settlers were confronted by the unfamiliar and unsettling noises emanating from the bush at night. The loud screams, growls, and snarls, often heard echoing through the wilderness, led them to believe that malevolent spirits or “devils” inhabited the land.
Upon investigating the source of these sounds, they encountered the stocky, dark-furred marsupial with its powerful jaws and fierce demeanor, especially when feeding. The combination of its nocturnal habits, alarming vocalizations, and perceived aggressive nature cemented the association with a “devil.” This name, reflecting their initial fear, became the widely accepted designation for Sarcophilus harrisii.