Can You Have a Tasmanian Devil as a Pet? And Why Do They Sound Like They’re Arguing with Themselves?

The Tasmanian devil, a carnivorous marsupial native to the island of Tasmania, is one of the most fascinating yet misunderstood creatures in the animal kingdom. Known for its ferocious demeanor, spine-chilling screeches, and powerful jaws, the Tasmanian devil has captured the imagination of many. But can you actually have one as a pet? And why do they sound like they’re perpetually engaged in a heated debate with themselves? Let’s dive into the complexities of this unique animal and explore the possibilities, challenges, and oddities surrounding the idea of keeping a Tasmanian devil as a pet.

The Tasmanian Devil: A Brief Overview

Before we even consider the idea of domesticating a Tasmanian devil, it’s essential to understand what makes this animal so unique. Tasmanian devils (Sarcophilus harrisii) are the largest carnivorous marsupials in the world, weighing between 9 to 26 pounds and measuring about 20 to 31 inches in length. They are nocturnal creatures, primarily scavengers, and are known for their powerful bite, which can crush bones with ease. Their name, derived from their eerie vocalizations and aggressive feeding behavior, has cemented their reputation as fierce and untamable.

Can You Legally Own a Tasmanian Devil?

The short answer is: it’s complicated. In most parts of the world, including Australia, it is illegal to keep a Tasmanian devil as a pet. These animals are protected under various conservation laws due to their vulnerable status. The Tasmanian devil population has been severely impacted by a contagious cancer known as Devil Facial Tumor Disease (DFTD), which has decimated their numbers in the wild. As a result, efforts to conserve and protect the species have made it nearly impossible for private individuals to own one.

However, in some regions outside of Australia, exotic pet laws may allow for the ownership of Tasmanian devils under strict regulations. These regulations often require permits, specialized enclosures, and proof of the owner’s ability to care for such a unique animal. Even then, the ethical implications of keeping a wild animal as a pet must be considered.

The Challenges of Keeping a Tasmanian Devil as a Pet

Assuming you could legally own a Tasmanian devil, the challenges of caring for one are immense. Here are some of the key factors to consider:

1. Dietary Needs

Tasmanian devils are carnivorous scavengers with a diet that includes small mammals, birds, insects, and carrion. Replicating this diet in a domestic setting would be both expensive and logistically challenging. Fresh meat, bones, and other protein sources would need to be provided daily, and the mess from their feeding habits would require constant cleanup.

2. Space Requirements

These animals are highly active and require ample space to roam, explore, and exhibit natural behaviors. A standard backyard would not suffice; a large, secure enclosure with plenty of enrichment would be necessary to keep a Tasmanian devil healthy and happy.

3. Behavioral Issues

Tasmanian devils are not domesticated animals. They are wild creatures with instincts that make them unpredictable and potentially dangerous. Their powerful jaws and aggressive feeding behavior could pose a risk to humans and other pets. Additionally, their nocturnal nature means they would be most active at night, which could disrupt household routines.

4. Health Concerns

Tasmanian devils are susceptible to various diseases, including DFTD. Providing proper veterinary care for such a unique animal would be difficult, as few veterinarians have experience with marsupials of this kind. Furthermore, the risk of zoonotic diseases (diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans) cannot be ignored.

5. Socialization and Enrichment

In the wild, Tasmanian devils are solitary animals, coming together only to mate or compete for food. This solitary nature means they may not form bonds with humans or other pets. Providing adequate mental stimulation and enrichment would be crucial to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.

Why Do Tasmanian Devils Sound Like They’re Arguing with Themselves?

One of the most distinctive features of the Tasmanian devil is its vocalizations. These animals produce a range of sounds, from growls and screeches to eerie screams that can be heard from miles away. But why do they sound like they’re arguing with themselves—or perhaps with an invisible opponent?

1. Communication

Tasmanian devils use vocalizations to communicate with one another. These sounds can serve as warnings, mating calls, or expressions of dominance. The chaotic nature of their vocalizations may simply be a way to convey complex messages in a noisy environment.

2. Feeding Frenzies

During feeding, Tasmanian devils are known to be highly competitive and aggressive. The loud screeches and growls are likely a result of this intense competition, as they try to assert dominance over a food source.

3. Stress and Anxiety

In captivity, Tasmanian devils may vocalize more frequently due to stress or anxiety. The unfamiliar environment and lack of natural stimuli could lead to increased vocalizations as a way to cope with their surroundings.

4. Evolutionary Quirk

It’s possible that the unique vocalizations of Tasmanian devils are simply an evolutionary quirk. Over time, these sounds may have developed as a way to intimidate predators or competitors, even if they seem nonsensical to human ears.

Ethical Considerations

Beyond the practical challenges, there are significant ethical concerns surrounding the idea of keeping a Tasmanian devil as a pet. These animals are not domesticated, and removing them from their natural habitat can have detrimental effects on both the individual animal and the species as a whole. Conservation efforts are focused on protecting Tasmanian devils in the wild, and keeping one as a pet could undermine these efforts.

Alternatives to Owning a Tasmanian Devil

If you’re fascinated by Tasmanian devils but recognize the impracticality and ethical concerns of owning one, there are other ways to support and appreciate these incredible animals:

1. Visit a Wildlife Sanctuary: Many sanctuaries and zoos house Tasmanian devils and provide educational programs about their conservation.
2. Support Conservation Efforts: Donate to organizations working to protect Tasmanian devils and their habitat.
3. Adopt a Domestic Pet: If you’re looking for a unique pet, consider adopting a domesticated animal that shares some traits with the Tasmanian devil, such as a ferret or a small dog breed.

FAQs

1. Are Tasmanian devils dangerous to humans?

While Tasmanian devils are not typically aggressive toward humans, their powerful jaws and unpredictable behavior make them potentially dangerous. They are wild animals and should be treated with caution.

2. Can Tasmanian devils be tamed?

Tasmanian devils are not domesticated animals and cannot be tamed in the same way as dogs or cats. They retain their wild instincts, even in captivity.

3. How long do Tasmanian devils live?

In the wild, Tasmanian devils typically live for 5 to 6 years. In captivity, they may live slightly longer, up to 8 years, with proper care.

4. What is Devil Facial Tumor Disease (DFTD)?

DFTD is a contagious cancer that affects Tasmanian devils, causing tumors to form on their faces and mouths. It has significantly reduced the wild population and is a major focus of conservation efforts.

5. Can Tasmanian devils be kept with other pets?

Due to their aggressive nature and dietary habits, Tasmanian devils should not be kept with other pets. They are solitary animals and may pose a risk to other animals in the household.

In conclusion, while the idea of having a Tasmanian devil as a pet may seem intriguing, the reality is far more complex and challenging. These remarkable animals are best appreciated in their natural habitat or through responsible conservation efforts. And as for their argumentative vocalizations—well, perhaps that’s just their way of reminding us that some creatures are meant to remain wild.