Tasmania is known for its unique and diverse wildlife. The isolation and relatively unspoiled natural environment have allowed many species to thrive in our "small-island" state that are not found on the Australian mainland. Some of the notable wildlife in Tasmania includes:
Tasmanian Devil (Sarcophilus harrisii): The Tassie devil is perhaps the most famous native Tasmanian animal. They are the largest living marsupial carnivores in the world and are known for their distinctive black coloration, stocky build, and strong jaws. These small, carnivorous marsupials have a fierce temperament and a loud eerie screech which lend to their name. (Try local experiences at the "Devils at Cradle" or visit the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary to see this endemic species)
Spotted-tailed Quoll (Dasyurus maculatus): The Spotted-tail Quoll is the largest of the quoll species and is known for its distinctive spotted coat and powerful build. They are carnivorous marsupials native to Australia and New Guinea.
Tasmanian Pademelon (Thylogale billardierii): Pademelons are like small wallabies, and the Tasmanian pademelon is one of the three species found in Tasmania. They are known for their compact size and are often seen foraging in forests and grasslands.
Wombat (Vombatus ursinus): Wombats are burrowing marsupials known for their stout, stocky build. Interestingly, wombats' pouches have a unique feature: they open backwards, (unlike kangaroo's and wallabies). When the mother wombat is burrowing or moving through tight spaces, the pouch doesn't fill with dirt and debris. They are herbivores and are often seen particularly in National Parks in Tasmania. (Mary’s tip: Visit Maria Island and you will certainly come across these “furry potatoes”).
A Wildlife Carer's Take on Tasmania (Credit: Mary)
Platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus): The platypus is a highly unusual and iconic Australian animal, and it can be found in some of Tasmania's rivers and streams. Try your luck when in Hobart and walk along the Hobart Rivulet to try and spot one.
Marine Life: Tasmania is surrounded by the Southern Ocean, and its coastal waters are teeming with marine life. You can find seals, dolphins, and even migrating whales in the waters around the island.
Endemic Invertebrates: Tasmania is also known for its unique insects and invertebrates, including the giant freshwater crayfish, which is the largest freshwater invertebrate in the world.
These are just a few examples of the many species that are unique to Tasmania. Sadly, roadkill is very predominant in Tasmania which has a huge impact on our native wildlife. It is estimated that up to half a million native animals are killed by cars each year in Tasmania, making Tasmanian roads deadlier for wildlife, per capita, than anywhere else in the world. Roadkill can have ecological and conservation implications, as it can contribute to population declines in already vulnerable species and disrupt local ecosystems.
Efforts are made to reduce the impact of roadkill in Tasmania, including measures like wildlife crossing signs, fencing, and underpasses that help animals safely traverse roads.
In addition, many wildlife rescue organizations and volunteers are dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating injured animals. If you come across injured wildlife or are involved in a roadkill incident, it's advisable to contact local authorities or wildlife rescue services, as they can provide assistance and care to the affected animals.
Tasmania's rugged wilderness and diverse ecosystems make it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and ecotourists. However, it's important to note that many of these species face threats such as habitat destruction and introduced predators, so conservation efforts are essential to protect Tasmania's unique flora and fauna.
Mary - Travel Advisor
Tasmanian Travel & Information Centre