Tasmanian Devils are one of the most sought-after wildlife sightings down under. These fascinating, albeit ferocious, creatures are native to Tasmania and seeing them up close is a unique and unforgettable experience. If you’re in Hobart and hoping to catch a glimpse of the infamous Tasmanian Devil, you are in luck. The greater Hobart area offers a range of sanctuaries and parks where these endangered animals can be observed in environments that closely resemble their natural habitats. In this article, we’ll explore several highly-regarded locations where Tasmanian Devils thrive and contribute to the conservation efforts dedicated to saving this remarkable species.
Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary
Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is at the forefront of Tasmanian Devil conservation. Located just 30 minutes from Hobart, it’s a haven for those looking to experience Tasmania’s unique wildlife. The sanctuary runs a breeding and rehabilitation program specifically designed for the Tasmanian Devil, giving visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the efforts to save this charismatic species from extinction. You can:
- Join a guided tour to learn about the Tasmanian Devils’ behavior and the threats they face.
- Watch feeding sessions and see these nocturnal creatures during their most active time of day.
- Support the sanctuary’s conservation work by contributing to their ‘Adopt a Devil’ program.
- Enjoy the sanctuary at your own pace with plenty of photo opportunities among these and other native animals.
Tasmanian Devil Unzoo
The Tasmanian Devil Unzoo is an innovative approach to wildlife and human interaction. Situated about an hour’s drive from Hobart, this place offers a unique ‘unzoo’ experience where the barriers are minimized, letting you observe the Tasmanian Devils in a more natural setting. The Unzoo focuses on creating a habitat that not only supports its resident devils but educates its visitors through:
- Engaging devil keeper talks.
- Interactive feeding demonstrations.
- Special evening tours allowing visitors to watch the nocturnal behavior of devils.
Tasmanian Wildlife Park
Another gem not too far from Hobart is the Tasmanian Wildlife Park. This facility combines wildlife preservation with education, providing an enclosure for the devils allowing you to see them during both day and night. Activities here include:
- Nightly feeding tours for observation of the Tasmanian Devils in their active phase.
- Educational displays on the life cycle and conservation status of the devils.
- Interactive experiences aimed at all age groups to promote awareness and support.
ZooDoo Wildlife Park
For a complete family destination, ZooDoo Wildlife Park is approximately a 30-minute drive from Hobart. It offers not just encounters with Tasmanian Devils but a whole range of Australian wildlife. With a dedicated Tasmanian Devil enclosure, ZooDoo provides:
- Daily ‘Devilish Encounter’ shows to get up close with these creatures.
- Information sessions about the work behind the scenes in protecting the Tasmanian Devil.
- A well-rounded wildlife experience with numerous native Australian animals on display.
Taroona’s Tasmanian Devil Conservation Park
Lastly, the Taroona’s Tasmanian Devil Conservation Park, on Hobart’s doorstep, is a long-established center for the care and understanding of the Tasmanian Devil. With ongoing research and breeding programs, visitors can:
- Participate in guided tours to gain in-depth knowledge about the species.
- Witness the devils in a variety of habitats intended to mimic their natural surroundings.
- Connect with the efforts dedicated to ensuring the future of the Tasmanian Devil through conservation and education.
Conclusion
In summary, Hobart offers a rich selection of venues where you can witness Tasmanian Devils and contribute to their conservation. From the hands-on approach at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary to the immersive experiences at the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo, each location provides a unique window into the world of these extraordinary animals. By visiting these parks and sanctuaries, not only do you get to see Tasmanian Devils in person, but you also support vital conservation efforts that help protect the species for generations to come.
FAQs
- 1. Can I interact with Tasmanian Devils when I visit these sanctuaries?
- While you can get close to Tasmanian Devils and watch them during feeding times, direct interaction is often limited due to the nature of the animals and for your safety. Specific sanctuaries might have ‘encounter’ sessions where you can get closer under supervision.
- 2. Are Tasmanian Devils dangerous?
- Tasmanian Devils are wild animals with powerful jaws and can be aggressive, especially when feeding or threatened. They are not dangerous if respected and observed from a safe distance or with a trained guide present.
- 3. What is the best time of day to see Tasmanian Devils?
- Being primarily nocturnal, the best time to see Tasmanian Devils active is during the evening or nighttime. However, many sanctuaries schedule feeding times during the day to ensure visitors can see them.
- 4. Do these parks and sanctuaries offer ways to support Tasmanian Devil conservation?
- Yes, many of these parks and sanctuaries run conservation programs you can support financially, often through adoption programs or donations, which go towards research and rehabilitation efforts for Tasmanian Devils.
- 5. Are these locations suitable for children?
- Yes, these wildlife sanctuaries are family-friendly and provide educational experiences that cater to children, including interactive talks and displays that make learning about the Tasmanian Devils fun and engaging for all ages.