Tasmanian devil: affectionate animal or dangerous predator. Tasmanian devil: description, photo, video - the terrible cry of the marsupial devil Where is the marsupial devil found
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Tasmanian devils are the largest carnivorous marsupials in the world. Adults are about the size of an average dog and have stocky and muscular bodies. In length can reach 80 centimeters and weigh up to 12 kilograms.
Devils have black fur and white stripe on the chest. Usually they lead a hermit life, but sometimes they can unite in small flocks while eating the corpse of a large animal.
Unlike other marsupials in Australia, Tasmanian devils can be active during the day, although they are nocturnal hunters. The devils were named after European explorers who heard their loud shrill cries and saw their ferocious nature during feeding and mating season.
According to research, the huge head and neck of Tasmanian devils allows them to inflict the most powerful bite per unit body mass of any land predator, and their jaws are strong enough to bite through metal traps.
Despite the fact that the Tasmanian devils look fat, they are excellent at climbing trees, swimming stormy rivers. Devils can't run with high speed to catch prey, but they are hardy enough and can run at a speed of 24 kilometers per hour for an hour.
Tasmanian devils feed on snake and bird meat, fish and insects. Their victims can be animals the size of small kangaroos. When hunting, Tasmanian devils rely on their acute vision and excellent sense of smell. They are not particularly picky eaters and can eat all parts of an animal's body, including fur and bones. Sometimes the devils bury the carcasses of animals in the ground and then eat the carrion.
Female Tasmanian devils give birth after 3 weeks of pregnancy and give birth to 20-30 very tiny cubs. These pea-sized crumbs climb into the bag, but not everyone survives, since the mother has only 4 nipples. After 4 months of life in the bag, the evil devils crawl out of it, but are still dependent on the mother. At the age of 8 months, they begin to lead an independent life. AT wild nature The life expectancy of these animals is 7-8 years.
Habitats:
Once upon a time, Tasmanian devils lived throughout almost all of Australia, but today they live exclusively on the island of Tasmania. Researchers believe that devils disappeared from the mainland at the same time that native tribes spread across Australia, and wild dingo dogs appeared about 3,000 years ago.
Today, the Tasmanian devils, as the name implies, live on the island of Tasmania, but most of all these animals can be found in the wooded areas off the coast. In the 19th century, the Tasmanian devils began to be mercilessly exterminated, as local farmers viewed them as sworn enemies to their livestock. They almost died out, but timely measures taken to save these animals allowed them to increase their populations.
conservation status: an endangered species
Tasmanian devils became protected in 1941, but their population has declined by 60 percent over the past decade. Scientists believe that the reason for the decline in the number of animals is mainly an infectious deadly form of cancer that infects devils and spreads very quickly. Tumors form on the face of the devils, so it becomes more difficult for the animals to eat. The problem of the devils is also the traffic on the roads.
Tasmanian devils have been known to start eating dead animals from their digestive system, as these are the softest organs.
Devils can eat food weighing 5-10 percent of their own body weight per day, and even more if they are very hungry. Given the opportunity, the devil can eat food that is 40 percent of his weight, and in record time - in half an hour.
The devils have several natural enemies. Smaller individuals can fall prey to eagles, owls, and even their relative, the spotted-tailed marsupial marten.
These animals can exude a disgusting odor when under stress.
Animals can open their mouths very wide when they want to express fear or indecision. To challenge another devil "to a duel", animals make shrill sounds.
In the tail of a healthy devil there are good reserves of fat, so the tails of sick animals are very thin and flabby.
Latin name for animals Sarcophilus laniarius literally means "meat lover Harris" named after the researcher who first described the Tasmanian devil.
Here is a description of the Tasmanian devils left by the father of modern zoology, Alfred Edmund Brehm, in his book Animal Life: “unkempt and ferocious, this animal, covered with numerous warts, lives like a savage, always in a bad mood, to which people do not treat with sympathy, as is usually the case with marsupials.
Tasmanian demon of the night
The Tasmanian devil is endemic (indigenous to the state). This small animal, also known as the "marsupial devil", was once found in Australia, but the dingo dogs, introduced by the first settlers at the dawn of our era, made it a significant competitor and led to gradual extinction.
Meeting the Tasmanian devil, diligently avoiding a person, is not so easy, however, acquaintance with him will never be forgotten. Unusual view and the voice of an animal, its different from most others marsupial image life and mystery stories that the locals tell about it invariably impresses.
Not so long ago, scientists found that marsupial devils once inhabited and South America. This was over 10 million years ago. They also lived on the former part of the Gondwana supercontinent, but after the separation of Australia from other continents, the development of animals ceased, while the dry climate of the "country in reverse" created ideal conditions for their life.
Tasmanian marsupials (once a vast genus) today have only one representative. In 1936, the death of the last thylacine was recorded. The Tasmanian devil has become the only predator living on the island, and even that is on the verge of extinction.
There is nothing remarkable in the appearance of the Tasmanian devil. This is a small, dog-sized and weighing about 12 kg predator, which nature has endowed with incredibly sharp fangs. The color of the beast is almost completely black, which partly influenced its appearance. unusual name. Only closer to the nose area, the color of the coat turns into gray, and a bright white stripe runs along the sternum.
At first sight Tasmanian devil may appear clumsy and folded disproportionately. His legs are short, his head is large, and the whole figure looks squat and awkward. Particularly striking are the large ears of a pinkish hue (the coat of animals is very short, and in this zone it is practically absent).
There is a small mystery in the structure of the devils - the first toe is missing on their hind legs. Scientists still have not been able to figure out why nature decided to change their limbs in such a way. The claws of animals are very large, and the teeth are incredibly sharp, although they do not change during life. Marsupial devils do an excellent job with any prey. It has been proven that these small animals, if necessary, can bite the skull or spine of their victim.
Males and females are similar to each other, they can be distinguished by size (males are larger) and folds on the skin, similar to a bag (these are present only in females, which, like other marsupials, continue to bear cubs after childbirth).
Beast Symbol
representatives of the marsupials natural environment can only be found in Australia. By decision of the government of the country, the Tasmanian devils have become one of the symbols of the state. In particular, their image was placed on the emblem of the regional service involved in the protection of wildlife and national parks. In addition, the Tasmanian Devil appears on the logo of the Australian football team, the Tasmanian Devils, and the defunct basketball team, the Gobart Devils, was also named after a predatory marsupial.
You can also find the image of the Tasmanian devil on Australian coins issued from 1989 to 1994, as well as on numerous advertising and souvenir information offered to guests not only in Tasmania, but also in Australia.
Tourists (not only foreign, but also Australian) are very keenly interested in the fate of the Tasmanian devils, so sometimes the island authorities organize small safaris, during which you can watch the life of amazing animals.
The image of the Tasmanian devil is also used by publishers of books for children, in addition, in the wake of the popularity of the action to protect the species, Linus Torvalds for some time, he replaced the symbol of his system (the penguin Tucks) with the cartoon image of the Tasmanian devil Taz.
Tasmanian devils are regularly featured in scientific and non-fiction films. documentaries, one of which was the tape "The Horrors of Tasmania", which was released in 2005.
A fairy tale is a lie, but there is a hint in it
Some Europeans compare marsupial devils with cubs. Such analogies evoke, first of all, the stocky physique and coloration, as well as the rather cute look that animals have while resting. Local residents, who, if they saw live bears, then only in zoos, treat the animals in a completely different way.Their reputation is, to put it mildly, bad - the devils are considered insidious, vengeful and bloodthirsty. Yes, and why be surprised. The first colonizers, who became exiled English convicts in Tasmania, could not stand the pest who abducted them from chicken coops at night. main source food - chickens. They began to hunt the Tasmanian devils, inventing in parallel the most incredible legends and stories about them.
Many of these tales exist to this day. So, it is believed that at night the animals receive a mystical power that helps them in hunting. There are many dark stories about how the Tasmanian devils kidnapped domestic cats and even small children. Naturally, such stories are far from the truth.
Tasmanian devils, despite their small size, have remarkable energy, so they may well attack animals that are larger than them, such as sheep, especially old and sick ones. Young individuals perfectly climb trees, which allows them to destroy nests, hunt parrots and other marsupials. Sometimes animals prey on frogs and crayfish, lying in wait for them on the banks of reservoirs for hours.
The main object of the devils' hunting are small animals, most often carrion left by other predators. AT warm days animals love to sleep in the sun, and go hunting at night. Devils love to eat, so they eat a lot. On the day the animal is able to eat food, which is about 15% of its body weight, and sometimes its amount can increase up to 40%. At the same time, to absorb such huge volumes, the Tasmanian devil does not need much time. The most plentiful meals last no more than half an hour.
Abundant and active nutrition is a natural regulatory mechanism, because droughts are not uncommon in Tasmania, when it is extremely difficult to find food. The Tasmanian devil is able to survive both bad weather and hunger - in the tail area of \u200b\u200bthe animals are body fat which provide energy when needed.
By the way, during periods of drought, adult and strong Tasmanian devils can prey on their weak young relatives. According to scientists, the ability of small marsupial devils to climb steep cliffs, which, as adults, the representatives of the species lose, is one of the methods of preserving the population.
The meals of the Tasmanian devils are very bloody and look really creepy. Animals begin to eat their victims from the organs of the digestive system, making loud sounds that spread over several kilometers and writhing in convulsive attacks of aggression.
The amazing life of an unusual marsupial
Tasmanian devils have many talents. For example, they can climb trees and swim. These little animals do not need company - they are single and meet with representatives of the opposite sex only during the mating season, which begins in April. Animals live only 7-8 years, therefore all their physiological processes proceed unusually quickly.
The sense of smell and hearing in animals are very good. Since most of their activity occurs at night, marsupial devils easily navigate in space, which complicates their study. How do animals not get lost in the dark (nights in Tasmania are very dark)? Nature provided them with sensitive hairs on the head and muzzle, called vibrissae. They allow them not only to navigate well in space, but also to easily track down the victim.
It is believed that Australian animals are generally unique and are not able to live in other ecosystems than those to which they are accustomed. However, Tasmanian devils are an exception to this rule. They can live in almost any ecosystem, with the exception of areas with high population density and lack of forest.
They are most commonly found near pastures, rainforests, and coastal savannahs. The animals did well in zoos around the world, but with the decline in their population and the struggle of Australian zoologists for the uniqueness of the local ecosystem, the decision was made to keep the Tasmanian devils in their natural habitat. That is why it will no longer be possible to see the Tasmanian devil in zoos. The last individual living outside of Tasmania died in 2004 at the Fort Verne Zoo.
Animals do not mark territory, but the hunting zones of each individual are clearly demarcated. Devils are ready to aggressively rush not only at the enemy, but also at a negligent relative who accidentally entered their territory.
Wide open mouth, which has become peculiar calling card animal, is used only for intimidation. The real weapon of the Tasmanian devil is the unpleasant smell that its glands secrete in case of fright. However, the Tasmanian devils prefer not to engage in open fights, spending most time in shelters, for which they choose dense bushes, empty holes or trunks of fallen trees.
Being calm by nature, devils in a normal situation behave slowly and even awkwardly. In the event of danger, as well as chasing prey, they are able to reach speeds of up to 13 kph. Animals swim well, but do so only when absolutely necessary.
The Tasmanians have practically no natural enemies, only gigantic marsupial martens and some species of birds of prey, as well as foxes certified in 2001, can compete with them.
Terrible name
Initially, the question arises why the animal received such a formidable name. Naturally, the reason here is not only that the Tasmanian devils have a characteristic color and often ruin chicken coops. By nature, the "Tasmanians" are very aggressive, and they express their emotions with a formidable growl, which sounds so menacing that it can unbalance even a very calm person.First, the animal begins to grumble, as if whiningly complaining about his life. Then there is a hoarse cough, and a moment later - a piercing, terrifying growl. For a long time the first European inhabitants of Tasmania could not explain the nature of these sounds and attributed them to otherworldly hostile forces.
Gradually, having understood the situation, the colonialists did not calm down and began to consider the Tasmanian devils as accomplices of evil forces. They began to actively destroy them, setting traps and scattering poisons. Pretty soon, the entire population of animals was on the verge of extinction.
Sometimes males enter into fights, which scientists call duels. In them, they try to prove their superiority by opening their mouths wide and making piercing sounds. The loudest and most active male wins in such fights that are fought for the hearts of devils.
The animal was first described in the early 19th century by George Harris, who named the unusual marsupial Didelphis Ursina (which can be translated as opossum bear). Already in 1908, Richard Aries came up with another Latin name Dasyurus Laniarius ( marsupial marten). Own modern name, as well as a biological classification, marsupial devils received in 1841. The literal translation of the name of animals in Latin - Sarcophilus laniarius - is not at all as original as Russian name, and just means "Harris meat lover". The animal owes this name to the European, who was the first to describe it.
Despite the formidable appearance and a very unfriendly attitude towards people, the animal is very clean. He not only regularly licks himself clean (after all, a predator, and the smell, as you know, is an obstacle to a good hunt), but also take water procedures. Seeing how the Tasmanian devils wash, you really might think that they are in cahoots with otherworldly forces. Animals fold their paws with a ladle, as people usually do, scoop up water, and then carefully wash their muzzle.
How do devils reproduce?
Tasmanian devils start breeding around their second year of life. Once a year, they have a mating season, during which they themselves have to engage in bloody battles for the possession of females. Devils, unlike many predators, are loners. They do not create permanent pairs, and if the male does not guard the female, she may well find another partner for herself.The pregnancy lasts only three weeks. Usually the female gives birth to 3-4, much less often - 4 cubs. Babies spend the first four months in their mother's pouch; for about six months they feed on mother's milk. At 8 months, young individuals become completely independent and leave their mother.
Research that is last years became especially active, showed that females survive more often from cubs than males.
Population features
Tasmania more than 3 thousand years ago became a reliable refuge for marsupials, who found refuge here after the development of Australia by the natives. Majority unique species died out just a few hundred years after the arrival of man, only the smallest of them could survive, which more easily adapted to new conditions and managed to establish with a person, if not friendly, then at least partnerships.
Even 600 years ago, "Tasmanians" could be found in every corner of Australia, as evidenced by fossils found in Victoria. At the time of the arrival of Europeans on the mainland, these marsupials had not been here for half a millennium. Wild dingoes and natives, who do not disdain to eat predators, have become a serious threat to the Tasmanian devils.
Just 50 years ago, Tasmanian devils were often seen on menus. local residents. Aborigines and adventurous people who have tasted devil meat say that it is tender and juicy, somewhat similar to veal. Since the animals destroyed domestic birds, in the 19th century they even gave a reward for killing them.
After valves and poisons became popular in the 20th century, the population began to decline critically, and if zoologists had not intervened, the species would have ceased to exist even then, like many other marsupials.
No less of a problem for devils, as for other Australian marsupials, is active movement cars on the tracks. Other predators interfered with normal development, including wild dingoes and foxes, which recently appeared on the island (these animals were brought to Tasmania illegally and, since they have no natural enemies, quickly bred, threatening to destroy the ecosystem that has been formed here for thousands of years).
Scientists who studied Tasmania claimed that a unique ecosystem had formed here that did not pose a threat to marsupials. Precisely because dingo dogs did not make their way to the island, thylacines (marsupial wolves) lived here for a long time. After the last marsupial wolf disappeared in 1936, scientists began to sound the alarm, in 1941 they passed a law on the protection of marsupial devils.
This made it possible to increase the population to almost 150 thousand individuals by 1990. However, another, more serious than people, threat arose. By the beginning of the 21st century, because of it, the population had decreased by 30%. Every year the number of Tasmanian devils capable of breeding and producing childbearing offspring is critically reduced. In our time, man has become the only hope of the Tasmanian devils, because they are on the verge of extinction not because of other predators, but because of a mysterious, incurable disease.
Help the devil
Since devils are less willing to hunt and prefer carrion, they not only have a well-developed sense of smell, but they should have had remarkable health, but this is not so. A species that plays an extremely important role in the Tasmanian ecosystem, serving as the island's orderlies, is subject to a unique disease that is transmitted from individual to individual.For a long time, biologists could not determine what happens to predators. A few decades ago, a sensational statement was made - marsupial devils suffer from a unique form of cancer that is infectious in nature.
Despite the decision taken at the beginning of the Second World War to protect the species, every year the population is catastrophically reduced. In the last 10 years alone, it has shrunk by more than half. The disease is terrible not only because it strikes internal organs predators - in sick Tasmanian devils, the muzzle swells. They die not so much from disease as from hunger.
Critical declines in the number of Tasmanian devils were observed in 1909 and 1950. In each of these cases, they were caused by epidemics. Then scientists could not explain what they were associated with, as well as how it would be possible to prevent their occurrence. Information about the disease, called DFTD, was made public in 1995. Until now, neither the causes of its occurrence, nor the ways of transmission, nor the methods of treatment are completely clear. However, it is known that individuals living in the eastern part of the island, where there are almost no Tasmanian devils, are especially susceptible to the disease.
In 2007, only 50,000 Tasmanian devils lived on the island. Today, these animals are so rare that their export from the island is prohibited. Scientists are trying to defeat the disease, but so far the only way out has been found in the isolation of patients on islands off Tasmania or in fenced areas. Sensors were placed on many individuals, allowing them to establish interspecies contacts, thus protecting animals from extinction.
Today, the protection of the Tasmanian devils is engaged in international union Conservation of Nature, which categorized animals as endangered. Accordingly, considerable money is allocated for the protection of the species, and several scientific centers, where biologists, doctors and environmentalists are working on the problem of restoration and regulation of the population.
cartoon legend
Hearing the name "Tasmanian devil", many do not remember the marsupial inhabitant of distant Australia, but Taz, the hero of the Looney Tunes cartoon series, filmed by Warner Bros. This character first appeared on the screens in the middle of the 20th century, then was forgotten for some time and again became the hero of television in the early 90s, when it was decided to make his own animated show for him, in which the whole Tasmanian family could take part.The animators carefully worked out the image of Taz, based on the real habits and behavior of the Tasmanian devils. That is why the fat and restless character immediately fell in love with both adults and children. Taz, for example, had an enviable appetite and was ready to eat almost everything, which became the reason for his incredible adventures, which the cartoon told about.
The audience learned a lot of details about the funny hero, for example, about his unusual hobby - picking up traffic jams. Taz was voiced from the moment the cartoon was released in 1954 and until 1989 - Mel Blanc. The actor managed to reliably convey the sounds characteristic of the Tasmanian devils, including growling and screeching, as well as add color to the character, endowing him with unintelligible chaotic speech.
As the struggle to save marsupials has intensified in recent years, cartoonists are planning to release new animated stories about Taz, which should help draw attention to the problem from a young audience.
The Tasmanian Devil is a unique marsupial this moment found only on the island of Tasmania. Unable to compete with people, foxes and wild dingo dogs, these animals left Australia more than 500 years ago. Today they inhabit cozy and quiet places, hunting and searching for carrion. The species is on the verge of extinction not only because of competition with other animals, including those introduced by humans, but also mysterious cancer, which is transmitted infectiously and affects the muzzles of animals, causing them to die not only from pain, but also from hunger. To date, scientists have not been able to find a solution to the problem that has reduced the population by almost half.
An animal that belongs to marsupial organisms has a second name - the Tasmanian devil. Lives only on the island of Tasmania.
Indeed, you will not envy his appearance, of course, he is not so handsome. The body of the predator has well-developed muscles and is covered with black fur.
The marsupial devil has a large head, short paws and a rather unpleasant voice, but you can put up with it. But his disposition and habits leave much to be desired.
The animal is famous for its exorbitant appetite and bite power. Leads single night image life, hides in dense bushes during the day, but sometimes gathers in small flocks.
It is a predator, and like all animals that lead such a lifestyle, it causes a negative attitude among people. In general, he is not the devil, in the truest sense of the word, but that is what the people he has done badly called him. During the development of the island of Tasmania, a person first encountered this animal, and at first did not pay any attention to the marsupial devil. But the predator immediately reminded of itself, plundering the stocks of meat products from the first colonists and destroying all the chickens brought by the settlers.
People have begun the methodical extermination of the poor animal, who would want an unknown beast to rule with impunity? Moreover, the meat of the marsupial devil itself was to the taste of people. The hunting was so intense that this beast was preserved in very small quantities, it now lives high in the mountains in completely deserted areas.
The Tasmanian devil is a rare endangered species, so it is carefully protected by law. In Australia, it is not found at all; farmers have practically got rid of it. But many scientists believe that this beast is not so terrible and dangerous, and it was impossible to allow the almost complete extermination of the animal. People are usually scared shout, which the animal makes in moments of danger, but these sounds are more like a strong rattle. In addition, when enemies attack, the devil scares them away. bad smell like a skunk. Any animal, if attacked, is forced to defend itself, showing all its cruel, bestial qualities. Those who have observed the behavior of the Tasmanian devil in the zoo doubt its disgusting features.
Young marsupial devils are tamed quite easily, they become funny, you can play with them like with dogs, but in no case should they be allowed to the chicken coop, poultry is the favorite prey of the beast.
Listen to the voice of the Tasmanian (marsupial) devil
If you look closely, the devil has a rather pretty muzzle, well-groomed skin, they wash themselves, moisten their palms with saliva and wipe their fur. The appearance of the devil, if you are completely unaware of his pranks, does not make a repulsive impression on people.
Previously, no one studied the habits of this beast, and only when it became a rare animal, scientists compiled a description of the external signs and behavior of the devil. At the same time, they discovered Interesting Facts: adult animals are very caring parents, they have to work hard to raise their cub. After all, a newborn baby that was born has a body size slightly larger than a centimeter, while her parents reach a body length of more than half a meter. So the baby has to sit out in his mother's bag until his eyes open and at least a semblance of hair appears.
tasmanian devil(Sarcophilus laniarius or Sarcophilus harrisii) is virtually impossible to be mistaken for any other species marsupials. Its terrible screech, black color and famous bad character, led early European settlers to call this nocturnal predator the devil. Although this animal is comparable in size only to a small dog, it can "sound" and look incredibly intimidating and cruel, which makes it possible to confidently identify it even for beginners who are uncertain about the representatives of the fauna of Australia and Tasmania.
The animal's Latin name, Sarcophilus harrisii, literally means "Harris meat lover" after the explorer who first described the Tasmanian devil.
The world's largest carnivorous marsupial mammal, Tasmanian devil is a predator of a dense, stocky build, with a relatively large, broad head and a short, thick tail. The color of the fur of this animal is mostly completely black, but white marks are often found, located most often on the rump and on the chest. The body size of the Tasmanian devil also varies greatly, depending on the diet and habitat. Adult males are usually larger than adult females. Large males can reach up to 12 kg in weight and be about 30 cm high at the withers.
The historical place of origin of the current Tasmanian Devil is the Australian mainland. Fossils of the ancestors of this animal have been found over a wide area of the mainland. However, according to scientists, on the mainland itself, devils died out about 400 years ago, long before the start of European settlement. These animals most likely disappeared there as a species, due to the increase in the aridity of the region and the spread of the habitat of dingoes, which only the Bass Strait prevented from penetrating Tasmanian territory.
Today the devil symbol of tasmania. But it was not always so. The first European settlers in Tasmania considered devils to be an annoying and serious nuisance, constantly complaining about the raids of these predators on the poultry houses of people. In 1930, Van Diemen's Land Co was even forced to offer the public and hunters a very generous slaughter fee to remove the devils, as well as Tasmanian tigers (marsupial wolves) and wild dogs, from their habitat in the region's northwest. : 2/6 (25 cents) for a male devil and 3/6 (35 cents) for a female of this species.
These measures led to the fact that by the middle of the 20th century, almost the entire population of devils was trapped and poisoned. These animals became very rare and their species seemed to be already on the way to complete extinction. But the number of these animals began to gradually increase after they were protected by law in June 1941.
Despite a decline in the number of individuals of this species over the past 15 years, which was associated with a widespread cancer infection among these animals, devil populations are still widespread in Tasmania, from the coast to the highlands. They successfully take root in the coastal wasteland, and in open dry (sclerophilous) and mixed, sclerophilic-tropical forests. In fact, these animals are quite versatile and unpretentious, they can hide almost anywhere and find shelter for the day, and also look for food at night.
Devils usually conceive in March, and the cubs are born as early as April. Pregnancy is, on average, 21 days. Newborns are always born a little more than the mother's bag, which has only four nipples for feeding the cubs, can take in. Although the mother's pouch is adapted for the full-fledged rearing and feeding of four puppies, such a number of young individuals rarely survive. The average number of surviving and growing cubs is usually two or three puppies. Each of the newborns is firmly attached in the bag to the mother's nipple and is in this position for about 4 months. After this time, young and strong puppies begin to occasionally crawl out of the bag, and then leave it altogether, remaining in a spacious hole - most often, this is a hollow log.
Juveniles are weaned at five to six months of age and are believed not to leave their mother, who continues to live with them until about the end of December. Tasmanian devils probably start breeding at the end of their second year of life. The average longevity of individuals of this species reaches 7-8 years.
The devil is basically a scavenger and feeds on whatever is available. Nature has provided this predator with powerful jaws and teeth so that it can completely devour its prey, including bones, furs, horns and hooves. The basis of the diet of the Tasmanian devil is wallabies, as well as various small mammals and birds, which these predators eat either as carrion or as prey. Reptiles, amphibians, insects and even marine crustaceans have been found in the stomachs of these wild "demons". Carcasses of sheep and large cattle, provide the Tasmanian devil with food in agricultural areas. Devils play an essential role in maintaining proper sanitation around livestock farms, clearing the area from the carcasses of fallen domestic animals. The removal of food for the larvae in this way greatly helps to reduce the risk of the spread of blowflies and prevent the death of sheep.
Devils are famous for their noisy gatherings that accompany the process of devouring a large carcass. Loud noise and specific sounds made at the same time by individuals are used to establish individual dominance among members of the pack.
The devil is nocturnal (they are most active after dark). During the day, they usually hide in a den, or in dense bushes. While hunting, these animals travel considerable distances per day, up to 16 km, along well-defined paths, bypassing their possessions in search of food. They tend to move rather slowly, with a characteristic gait, but can also gallop quickly, using both hind legs to push off the ground at the same time. Juvenile devils are more flexible and can even climb trees, although this is not the species' immediate habitat.
Eyewitnesses are well aware of the sight of the yawning devil, which looks so menacing that it can be misleading. The appearance of an animal in this state can provoke the development of more fear and uncertainty in the observer than even the direct manifestation of aggression on the part of this predator.
When under stress and taking defensive measures, devils exude a strong repulsive odor, but when calm and relaxed, they are not offensive. The devil makes many threatening sounds, from a sharp, specific cough to a high-pitched screech. A sharp sneeze is used by the individual as a challenge to other devils, which often brings the situation to a fight. Many of these exciting behaviors are bluffs and part of a ritual to minimize the harmful fighting that often occurs when group feeding a large carcass.
In May 2008, the status of the Tasmanian devil was officially upgraded from endangered to critically endangered.
The Endangered Species Expert of the Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) has completed its five-year review of species scheduled for the relevant National Law and recommended that the species status of the Tasmanian Devil be moved "up the list" due to its growing vulnerability.
Traditionally, the population of this species is controlled by the availability of food, competition with other devils, loss of habitat, persecution by predators and poachers. But today, the greatest threat to the Tasmanian devil population is the death from a spreading cancerous infection, dubbed "Devil Facial Tumor Disease" (DFTD).
Since 1941, the Tasmanian devil has been chosen as a symbol of Tasmania, national parks and game management. Currently, the Tasmanian devil is fully protected by law as a potentially endangered species.
Tasmanian devils have been known to start eating dead animals from their digestive systems, as these are the softest organs.
Devils can eat food weighing 5-10 percent of their own body weight per day, and even more if they are very hungry. Given the opportunity, the devil can eat food that is 40 percent of his weight, and in record time - in half an hour.
Devils have several natural enemies. Smaller individuals can fall prey to eagles, owls, and even their relative, the spotted-tailed marsupial marten.
These animals can exude a disgusting odor when under stress.
Animals can open their mouths very wide when they want to express fear or indecision. To challenge another devil "to a duel", animals make shrill sounds.
In the tail of a healthy devil there are good reserves of fat, so the tails of sick animals are very thin and flabby.
Classical zoological science identifies in its systematics up to 5,500 modern species mammals. All of them differ markedly from each other in size, areola, structure and external features. One of the most specific animals of this class was a warlike predator, which received the name of the Tasmanian devil.
It is the only representative of its kind, however, scientists have noted its significant similarity with the quolls and most distantly with the extinct marsupial wolf thylacine.
Why is the Tasmanian devil called that?
It was the terrible screams and sharp teeth that gave people reason to call this animal the "devil"
In 1803, when a dilapidated boat of English officers, sailors and convicts moored on the banks of the wide river Derwent, located south of Tasmania, its composition met with a ferocious marsupial predator.
In their diaries, the settlers of the island immediately noted his formidable growl, mixed with piercing cries and a toothy mouth.
The predator has been characterized as an immensely wild and extremely dangerous pest for livestock. Its sharp teeth were so developed that it chewed on the large bones of domesticated animals, crushed hard cartilage, and ate carrion.
It is worth noting that disputes still arise among people regarding the correct name of this animal. Disagreements are built around two phrases similar in sound - "Tasmanian devil" and "Tasmanian devil".
This animal was named the Tasmanian devil in the university work “The Extinction of Ancient Reptiles and Mammals” by the Soviet paleontologist L.K. Gabunia. This variant is found in fiction, covering the books of Yu. B. Nagibin, D. A. Krymov, and in popular science works, including V. F. Petrov.
As of 2018, all the leading media of the Russian Federation and scientific publications designate this predator with the word “Tasmanian” in their materials, which gives reason to assume the correctness of this particular option.
What does it look like
With its outlines, the island "devil" resembles a dense and squat dog
The Tasmanian devil has officially been recognized as the largest living carnivorous marsupial on planet Earth. He entered the detachment and family of the Australian predatory marsupials. Compared to its entire body, the predator's head is quite impressive in size.
Behind the anus, the devil has a short and thick tail. In its structure, it differs from the body parts of other mammals, as it accumulates fat reserves. In sick predatory marsupials, the tail acquires a thin and frail shape. Over its area grow long hair, which are often wiped on the ground, and then the movable appendage on the back of the animal's body remains almost naked.
The front legs of the Tasmanian devil are slightly longer than its hind legs. Thus, marsupials are capable of reaching speeds of up to 13 km / h, but they are only enough for short distances.
Fur is usually dyed black. Often there are rare white spots and peas on the chest (although about 16% of wild devils do not have such pigmentation).
Males reach greater length and mass than females:
- The average weight of a male is 8 kilograms with a body length of 65 centimeters.
- Women's - 6 kilograms with a length of 57 centimeters.
Large males weigh up to 12 kilograms, although it is worth considering that devils in western Tasmania tend to be smaller.
Marsupials have five long toes on their front feet. Four of them are directed strictly forward, and one looks out from the side, which allows the devil to more comfortably hold food.
The first finger on the hind limbs is absent, but there are still large claws that contribute to a strong grip and tearing food.
The Tasmanian devil has the strongest bite in relation to its own body size. Its grip cannot be compared to other mammals. The compression force is 553 N. The jaw can open up to 75–80°, allowing the devil to generate more power to tear meat and crush bones.
The devil has long whiskers on its face, which are endowed with the function of smell and help the predator find prey in the dark. Its sense of smell is able to recognize odors at a distance of up to 1 kilometer, which contributes to the calculation of the victim.
Because devils hunt at night, their vision seems to be sharpest at night. Under these conditions, they can easily detect moving objects, but have difficulty seeing stationary elements of the surrounding world.
Habitat
The Tasmanian Devil is endemic to Australia.
Devils inhabit all places in the Australian state of Tasmania, including the outskirts of urban areas.. They spread throughout the Tasmanian mainland and mastered its nearby parts, for example, Robbins Island.
Up to a certain point, mentions of a marsupial predator on the island of Bruni are known, but after the 19th century no one met him in this region. It is assumed that from other areas the Tasmanian devil was driven out and exterminated by dingo dogs introduced by the natives.
Now these mammals are found daily in the central, northern and western parts of the island in areas designated for sheep pastures, as well as in the national parks of Tasmania.
Lifestyle
The Tasmanian Devil is a nocturnal and dusk hunter. He spends the daytime in a dense bush or a deep hole.
Young devils can climb trees, but this becomes increasingly difficult as they grow older. Adult predators can devour young members of their family if they are very hungry. Therefore, climbing and moving through trees became a means of survival for young individuals, allowing them to hide from their ferocious brethren.
Devils also thrive in water and are able to swim. It follows from the observation that predators can cross a river 50 meters wide. Predators are not afraid of cold waterways.
What does it eat
Tasmanian devils are practically omnivores.
Tasmanian devils have the ability to overpower prey the size of small kangaroos. However, in practice, they are more opportunistic and eat carrion more often than they hunt live animals.
Devils are able to devour food weighing up to 40% of their own body weight per day with a special feeling of hunger.
Despite the fact that the devil's favorite food is wombats, he will not refuse to feast on other local mammals. Predators may be affected by:
- opossum rats;
- potor;
- livestock (including sheep);
- birds;
- fish;
- insects,
- frogs;
- reptiles.
The facts of hunting of marsupial devils for water rats near the sea are documented. They also don't mind refreshing themselves. dead fish that was washed ashore.
Near human habitation, they often steal shoes and chew them into small pieces. Surprisingly, the predators also consumed the collars and tags of the eaten animals, jeans, plastic, etc.
Mammals inspect flocks of sheep, sniffing them from a distance of 10-15 meters and begin to act if they understand that the victim has no chance to resist them.
The study of devils during their meal has established twenty sounds that act as a means of communication.
Mammals try to show their dominance through a ferocious roar or by taking up a fighting pose. Adult males are the most aggressive, standing on their hind legs and attacking each other with their forelimbs, similar to sumo wrestling.
Sometimes the Tasmanian devil can be seen torn flesh around the mouth and teeth, which were harmed during the fight.
Behavioral Features
Animals do not consolidate into groups, but spend most of their time alone when they stop feeding on their mother's breasts. In the classical view, these predators were described as solitary animals, but their biological relationships have not been studied in detail. A study published in 2009 shed some light on this.
tasmanian devils in national park The Narauntapoos were equipped with radars that recorded their interactions with other individuals over several months from February to June 2006. This showed that all mammals were part of one huge contact network, characterized by interaction between each other.
Tasmanian devil families set up three or four dens to improve their own security. Minks, previously owned by wombats, are used by females during their pregnancy due to increased comfort and security.
Tasmanian devils prefer to live in burrows
Dense vegetation near streams, dense thorny grasses and caves are also great as a shelter. Adult predators live in the same minks until the end of their lives, which then pass to younger individuals.
In self-defense and intimidation of other animals, the Tasmanian devil is capable of making heartbreaking sounds. They can also growl hoarsely and grunt piercingly as danger approaches.
By general idea marsupial predator cannot threaten a person in any way. However, situations of attacks of these mammals on tourists are known. Therefore, when this animal is found nearby, it is better not to disturb it with provocative actions and be careful.
Diseases
The disease of these predatory animals, first encountered in 1996, was called the "facial tumor of the devil." According to statistical estimates, from 20% to 80% of the population of the Tasmanian devil suffered from its impact.
The tumor is characterized by high aggressiveness and almost guaranteed mortality of infected animals within 10–16 months.
This disease is an example of a transmissible disease that can be transmitted from one animal to another. As of 2018, no cure for facial tumors has been developed, so the animals have to look for natural mechanisms to combat this dysfunction. As it turned out, these animals have them:
- In mammals, the processes of sexual maturation have increased. The volume of pregnant females under the age of one year has increased significantly, which allows maintaining the reproductive component of the species at the proper level.
- Carnivora family marsupials start multiply all year round, while before mating season they only lasted a couple of months.
The diversity of transmissible tumors raises questions about the likelihood of the disease occurring in humans, the researchers warn.
reproduction
A female can give birth to up to 30 cubs
Females are ready to perform their reproductive functions upon reaching puberty. On average, their body is fully formed by the age of two. After this point, they are able to produce offspring a couple of times a year, producing several eggs.
The devil's reproductive cycle begins in March or April. During this period, there is an increased number of potential victims. Thus, the described time seasons coincide with the maximization of food supplies in the wild. It is spent on newly born young Tasmanian devils.
Mating takes place in March in sheltered areas during the day and night. Males fight over females during the breeding season. Female mammals will mate with the most dominant predator.
Females may ovulate up to three times in a 21-day period, and copulation may take five days. A case was recorded when a couple mated for eight days.
Tasmanian devils are not monogamous. Thus females are willing to copulate with multiple males if not protected after mating. Males also breed with large quantity female representatives during the season.
average life expectancy
The biological structure of the Tasmanian devils controls their numbers. The mother has four nipples, and the cubs are born about thirty. All of them are very small and helpless. Therefore, those who manage to cling to the source of milk survive.
The female continues to feed her offspring up to 5-6 months. Only after this period can mammals embark on the path of self-sufficiency in obtaining food.
In nature, animals do not live longer than eight years, which makes the renewal of representatives of this population very fleeting.
The mammal belongs to the symbolic animals of Australia. The image with it is the emblem of many Tasmanian national parks, sports teams, coins and emblems.
Despite the fact that the appearance of the devil and the sounds he makes can inspire danger, this family of predatory marsupials is a worthy representative of the animal kingdom.