Quick answer
Tasmanian Devils (Sarcophilus harrisii) typically live around 5–6 years in the wild (up to 8 in captivity). Wild averages fall when predation, disease, or habitat loss rise; managed populations can live longer with stable food and veterinary care.
Key takeaway
Tasmanian Devils (Sarcophilus harrisii) typically live around 5–6 years in the wild (up to 8 in captivity). Wild averages fall when predation, disease, or habitat loss rise; managed populations can live longer with stable food and veterinary care.
Tasmanian Devil lifespan in the wild
Field and museum records place most tasmanian devils near 5–6 years in the wild (up to 8 in captivity). That figure blends ages at death across regions, so treat it as a planning range. Body size (6–14 kg (13–31 lb); males larger than females) and risk lifestyle both shape the average.
What shortens tasmanian devil lives
Predation, infectious disease, injury, food shortages, and habitat fragmentation cut survival. Roadkill and human conflict matter wherever tasmanian devils share landscapes with people.
What helps tasmanian devils live longer
Connected habitat, low chronic stress, and reliable food support longevity. For captive or domestic relatives, species-correct diet and veterinary screening matter more than generic “pet” advice.
Tasmanian Devil life stages
Juveniles usually face higher mortality than prime adults. Older animals may move less, show dental wear, or lose body condition — useful signs when ageing tasmanian devils in the field.
Devil facial tumour disease
DFTD is a contagious cancer spread when devils bite each other during feeding and mating. Tumours on the face prevent eating and kill within months. The disease caused an estimated 80% population crash since the 1990s. Captive insurance populations, fenced disease-free areas, and vaccine trials are central to recovery efforts.
Conservation and recovery
Listed Endangered, devils are now found only on Tasmania — extinct on mainland Australia for thousands of years, likely outcompeted by dingoes. Roadkill, habitat loss, and DFTD remain threats. Tourism and the Save the Tasmanian Devil Programme fund research and captive breeding.
Sources
Tasmanian Devil FAQs
How long do tasmanian devils live?
Tasmanian Devils (Sarcophilus harrisii) typically live around 5–6 years in the wild (up to 8 in captivity). Wild averages fall when predation, disease, or habitat loss rise; managed populations can live longer with stable food and veterinary care.
What is the scientific name of the tasmanian devil?
Sarcophilus harrisii — used in research and conservation listings for tasmanian devils.
What do tasmanian devils eat?
Tasmanian Devils eat carrion, small mammals, birds, and insects, with seasonal and regional variation in Forests, scrub, and farmland across Tasmania.
Where do tasmanian devils live?
They are associated with Forests, scrub, and farmland across Tasmania. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of tasmanian devils?
Listed in our guides as Endangered. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.