Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat

Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.

Tasmanian devil

Scientific name: Sarcophilus harrisii


Tasmanian devil

IUCN Status: Endangered

Family: DASYURIDAE

Group: Mammals

Shyness: Suspicious

Safe distance: 30 m

Breeding season / Courtship: 01.03-31.05

Gestation: 3 semaines

Births: 01.06-31.08


Habitat:
Forests, woodlands, and meadows of Tasmania, mainly in forest habitats and scrublands

Description:
The Tasmanian Devil is a medium-sized carnivorous marsupial, easily recognized by its black fur and white patches on its chest and hips. It measures about 50 cm in length, with a tail of 25 cm, and weighs between 5 and 10 kg. This nocturnal predator is found exclusively on the island of Tasmania, where it primarily feeds on small mammals, birds, insects, and carcasses of dead animals. The Tasmanian Devil is known for its aggressive feeding behavior, often making growling and screaming noises. It is also a solitary animal, only coming together during breeding or when it finds a large carcass. While this species plays an important scavenging role in its ecosystem, it is now threatened by a devastating infectious disease, Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD), which has significantly reduced its population. Habitat loss and vehicle collisions also pose threats to its survival.

Recommended lens:
>=200 mm

Photography tips:
Photographing the Tasmanian devil requires a telephoto lens, as these nocturnal and solitary animals are most active at dusk or in the dark. Use camera settings adapted for low light, with high ISO sensitivity and a fast enough shutter speed to prevent blur. Be patient and quiet — these marsupials can be shy, elusive, and hard to spot. Aim to capture their unique behavior as they scavenge or move through dense undergrowth in search of food.

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