Tasmanian Devils are the largest surviving carnivorous marsupial in the world. They are known for their black fur, white chest markings, stocky build, and powerful jaws.
Their oversized heads allow them to open their jaws up to 80 degrees wide and their jaws carry enough force to crush bone.
They are nocturnal and feed on a variety of prey, including small mammals, birds, reptiles, and carrion.
Tasmanian Devils mature in their second year and usually mate in March. After a gestation period of 21 days the females give birth to between 20 and 30 young called 'Joeys'. Since the mother only has four teats, most young will not survive.
Unfortunately, Tasmanian Devils are currently listed as endangered due to a contagious facial cancer called Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD).
DFTD is extremely unusual as it is only one of a small number of recorded cancers that can spread like a contagious disease.
This disease has decimated the Tasmanian Devil population, and conservation efforts are underway to try and save the species.
As Tasmanian Devils often scavenge for food, they are drawn to roadside verges to feed on roadkill.
Being nocturnal, this increases their own chances of being hit by passing traffic, adding to the demise of this already endangered species.
