Night Safari welcomes four Tasmanian Devils from Australia as part of a global ambassador programme

Listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, wild populations of Tasmanian devils have been devastated by the spread of devil facial tumour disease – a contagious cancer that continues to threaten the survival of this species. The four newcomers are part of the insurance population managed by the Save the Tasmanian Devil Programme (STDP), an initiative led by the Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania, which aims to build a healthy, cancer-free insurance population under human care.

Dr Cheng Wen-Haur, Deputy CEO of Life Sciences and Operations and Chief Life Sciences Officer at Mandai Wildlife Group, said, “This transfer marks a meaningful step forward in our collaboration with the Save the Tasmanian Devil Programme and Aussie Ark to safeguard this iconic species. Beyond strengthening population resilience, we aim to deepen public understanding of why Tasmanian devils matter. Their presence here enables us to tell a compelling conservation story – one that begins in Tasmania but resonates globally. By connecting people with the devils’ journey, we hope to transform conservation from a distant concern into a personal and actionable cause. Even small actions like supporting conservation efforts or simply sharing their story can make a real difference.”

Found only on the island state of Tasmania, Australia, the Tasmanian devil is the world’s largest carnivorous marsupial. They are easily recognised by their stocky build, black fur and loud vocalisations that likely inspired their name. Despite their fierce appearance, they are shy scavengers and play an important role in keeping their native ecosystems healthy.

Tim Faulkner, Managing Director of Aussie Ark, said, “Transfers of Tasmanian devils to international zoos are relatively rare and are carefully coordinated as part of the global species management plan. Aussie Ark works closely with government agencies and zoo partners to ensure each transfer supports the long-term survival of the species. Aussie Ark is delighted to collaborate with Night Safari and STDP on the transfer of these four devils. Establishing genetically diverse populations in well-managed, accredited zoos globally helps safeguard the species and provides a vital safety net against extinction.”

Aussie Ark was established in 2011 as a response to the devastating impact of devil facial tumour disease on the Tasmanian devil population. Since then, it has grown into one of Australia’s leading conservation organisations with the largest population of Tasmanian devils on mainland Australia, including over 500 devil joeys born in its famous ‘Ark’ facility in New South Wales.

The new arrivals can be distinguished by their unique appearances and temperaments. Cuttlefish, the only female, is notably vocal and easily recognised by a white marking near her tail. Cogsworth, with his all-black coat, is equally expressive and often first to explore new areas. In contrast, Lumière is quieter and more reserved, with a large white spot near his tail. Scuttle sports small white spots on his back and tends to be protective of his personal space. The males were named after quirky Disney characters, a playful nod to their distinctive personalities.

The four new Tasmanian Devils are being carefully introduced to the existing individuals at Night Safari. As with all animal introductions, this process will be gradual and based on their comfort levels. The Animal Care team is closely monitoring their interactions to ensure positive social dynamics and well-being. The three male devils – Cogsworth, Lumière and Scuttle – will be housed together in one exhibit while the females will share the other. The groups will be rotated between the two exhibits regularly to encourage environmental stimulation.

Night Safari received its first Tasmanian devils in 2022 under the STDP. Since then, the team has expanded its knowledge of devil husbandry and behaviour through continued field training and close collaboration with counterparts in Australia.

The Tasmanian Devil Trail also features exhibits with other unique Australasian species such as the kiwi, sugar glider and woylie. Visitors can learn more during daily keeper talks along the trail. Starting 8 August, look forward to Hello from the Wild: Wallaby, an intimate encounter with Night Safari’s red-necked wallabies. During these sessions, participants will get to feed these gentle marsupials while their keepers share fun facts about their characteristics and how they are cared for.