Your wildlife photography guide.

Explore the tasmanian devil in detail, study its behavior, prepare your shots.

Where to observe and photograph the tasmanian devil in the wild

Learn where and when to spot the tasmanian devil in the wild, how to identify the species based on distinctive features, and what natural environments it inhabits. The WildlifePhotographer app offers tailored photography tips that reflect the tasmanian devil’s behavior, helping you capture better wildlife images. Explore the full species profile for key information including description, habitat, active periods, and approach techniques.

Tasmanian devil

Scientific name: Sarcophilus harrisii


Tasmanian devil

IUCN Status: Endangered

Family: DASYURIDAE

Group: Mammals

Sensitivity to human approach: Suspicious

Minimum approach distance: 30 m

Rut period: February to March

Gestation: 18-21 jours

Births: February to April


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

Activity period :
Mainly active at night, generally discreet during the day.

Identification and 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 – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

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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