Predators of the Tasmanian Devil: Few Natural Enemies

The Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii) has very few natural predators due to its aggressive temperament, powerful bite (strongest bite force per body mass of any mammal), and nocturnal habits.

Historical Predator

• Thylacine (Tasmanian Tiger, Thylacinus cynocephalus): Likely preyed on devils. Extinct since 1936 (last captive died).

Current Natural Threats

• Wedge-tailed Eagles (Aquila audax): Occasionally take juveniles or scavenge carcasses.
• Intraspecific Predation: Adult devils cannibalize juveniles (major cause of young mortality).

Major Modern Threats (Non-Predatory)

• Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD): Contagious cancer; wiped out 80%+ of wild population since 1996.
• Roadkill: Scavenging on roads at night.
• Habitat Loss & Fragmentation.
• Wildfire.
• Persecution (historical): Bounty hunting until 1941.

Conservation Status

Endangered (IUCN). Insurance populations in mainland zoos; vaccine trials for DFTD; wild monitoring.