Wild Island

Urgent action is needed to protect Tasmania’s unique wildlife, particularly our iconic Tasmanian Devils. These remarkable creatures have long been a symbol of Tasmania, yet they’re now facing one of the most severe threats to their survival.

The Tasmanian Devil is known for its feisty temperament, distinctive scream, and role as a vital scavenger in its ecosystem. With a rapidly declining population and the looming threat of extinction, the plight of the Tasmanian Devil serves as a powerful reminder of the fragility of nature and the importance of conservation efforts.

Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD) has wiped out an estimated 80% of the population in some areas, leaving the future of the species in jeopardy which is absolutely heartbreaking. First detected in the mid 1990s, DFTD is a transmissible form of cancer that spreads through the transfer of cells between individuals, typically when devils fight or bite each other; a common behaviour during mating season or in disputes over food.

The disease causes tumours to grow on the face and mouth of the affected animals, making it difficult for them to eat or drink. Over time, the tumours interfere with their ability to survive, leading to starvation and death. What makes DFTD particularly devastating is its ability to spread quickly across populations, as the disease is contagious and can affect even healthy devils in close proximity.

Beyond immediate responses, we need long-term, sustainable solutions to ensure the survival of the devil and other native species.

To address this, we propose the following actions:

1. A full review of current funding models to ensure resources are directed to the actual boots-on-the-ground researchers, rescuers and rehabilitators, as well as adequate support for wildlife hospitals and sanctuaries like Bonorong and Tasmania Wildlife Hospital. In the case of DFTD, researchers and wildlife carers need better funding to help manage and treat affected animals, and work towards finding a cure for this deadly disease.
2. Better support for wildlife rescuers & carers, through grants, equipment subsidies, and recognition of their vital contributions to wildlife protection, particularly as they work on the front lines with sick and injured devils.
3. Expand and strengthen rescue networks, including partnerships between government, and local communities, to ensure quick and effective responses when wildlife is in need. This includes ensuring there are designated teams who can safely and swiftly respond to sightings of devils with DFTD.
4. A national campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation and the plight of the Tasmanian Devil. These campaigns should educate the public on the signs of DFTD and encourage responsible behaviours, such as reporting sick animals and avoiding contact with wildlife.
5. Comprehensive land management policies focused on preserving natural habitats, restoring areas that have been damaged, and ensuring that any development projects consider the impact on wildlife corridors and ecosystems. Healthy environments are key to giving the Tassie Devil a fighting chance.
6. Support for private landholders to conserve habitat on their land, including tax incentives and government-funded programs that make it easier for landowners to maintain wildlife-friendly practices, particularly in areas where the devil population is still present.
7. Strengthening laws around wildlife protection, including cases of animal cruelty, and harsher penalties for habitat destruction. This is especially critical as Tasmania’s devils become increasingly vulnerable to disease and human impact.
8. Increasing financial investments in ongoing research to track the health of wildlife populations, understand emerging threats (like DFTD), and develop innovative solutions to protect vulnerable species, including the Tassie Devil. Research into potential genetic resistance to DFTD should be a priority, alongside the development of a vaccine.

If we continue with the current trajectory, the Tasmanian Devil will become yet another tragic statistic of a human race that has utterly disrupted the balance of life on Earth. It’s clear that the fate of the Tasmanian Devil depends on us.