Tasmanian devils are small-sized carnivorous animals found in the state of Tasmania in the state of Tasmania in Australia. Like many other animals, these animals too presently face the threat of extinction.
The uncommon name ‘devil’ is believed to have arisen from the animal’s ferocious screech, and tendency to eat carcass meat. A devil’s jaws are powerful enough to crush our bones! However, a large number of them are dying due to a contagious form of cancer that is affecting their species. Known as the devil facial tumour disease (DFTD), it is a rare tumour large in size, which forms on the face and neck of the animal. The disease was first seen in 1996. Experts have discovered that the cancer transmits from one devil to another through bites.
There are many programmes being conducted by the government to reduce the impact and spread of the tumour. The famous one is the ‘Save the Tasmanian Devil Programme’.
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