Here I was on the island of Tasmania, off the Australia East Coast, on the edge of the forest, tracking and spotting animals. We had to be really quiet, watching and waiting to catch a glimpse of the elusive Tasmanian devil in the wild. But I could feel a giggle coming on – I’ve always been the one to break first during in these sorts of suspenseful situation.
The tour guide glanced over at me – I think he knew what was inevitable. My friend Lynn was already on alert. She has experienced my giggling fits before. I tried to suppress the urge, my face screwed up into a grimace, my lips pursed and tightly closed. Lynn rolled her eyes. And just then, the guide pointed as we heard the terrifying screech. I jumped – it was so loud, it was as though the animal was upon us!
The bushes parted, and there he was – a real, live Tasmanian devil. Could that screech have come from such a relatively small animal? He was not much bigger than my dog! My mental image of a Tasmanian devil has always been that of a Looney Tunes cartoon – a squat little beast that walked on his hind legs and pestered Bugs Bunny. No, this animal looked completely different – our guide told us that these devils are fierce predators, and that their screech is a dominance behavior.
I suddenly realized that my urge to giggle had vanished. We were watching an animal that few had actually seen, and I was loving it! Our tour of Tasmania had brought us to the Bonorong Wildlife Park north of the city of Hobart, and this wonderful chance to see the Tasmanian devils in their native habitat. The park has been a breeding site for the animals for well over 20 years.
Later we had the opportunity to see several hand-reared Tasmanian devils, and noted the heartwarming affection they showed their trainer. The devil we saw in the wild appeared ferocious, but the ones who had bonded with humans were friendly, playful and a delight to watch. We learned that the devils are threatened, first by a disease that has ravaged their numbers, and next through persecution by humans and dogs. It reminded me of how wolves in the States have been hunted and persecuted. This was one of the most enlightening stops on our Australia tour!
Our hotel in Hobart was another unique experience of our Australia tour. The Henry Jones Art Hotel reminded me of one of New York City’s Tribeca area lofts. The hotel is housed in a former a jam factory. As we walked the halls exploring our surroundings, we found it akin to touring an art museum.
When Lynn and I finally arrived at room, I walked out onto the balcony to find a stunning view – a harbor with water an unbelievably rich color of blue, hills all around, and Mount Wellington in the distance. I could have stood there for hours admiring the panorama, but hunger won out and we headed down to dinner, admiring the extensive art collection on our way. What an enjoyable, diverse and luxurious Australian tour!
It’s not very common that Tasmanian devils are discussed in the US. I agree that when the term is mentioned many people think of Looney Toons! Sounds like a fantastic time Carol.
It was a fantastic time!