There was an interesting report on the ABC's World at Noon today. Scientists have discovered that the devil's decline from facial tumours has resulted in a change in possum behaviour in that possums are becoming more adventurous when seeking food. They're eating more seedlings so this is likely to have a negative impact on the quality of forest habitat which will, in turn, affect population numbers of a wide range of native fauna. Possums are also bolder in seeking food from human gardens.
The cascading effects of the huge reduction in this top predator's numbers are already on display. Among others is an increase in feral cat numbers so there are fears for populations of native mice and other mammals. Even the Tasmanian government is concerned enough to have a programme of introducing Tasmanian Devils into areas where devil numbers have declined significantly. These areas are fenced to reduce the likelihood of contact from cancer-affected devils.
Hi Woko, the electronic "print version" to your post.
http://www.themercury.com.au/news/tasmania/decline-of-the-tasmanian-devil-changes-animal-behaviours/story-fnj4f7k1-1227402126573
Dale Huonville, Tasmania
Thanks Dale.
hmmm shame there is no findings yet as to why and what is causing the devil's cancer.
And to think Tasmania with more possums as well. My first impressions of Tassie was how many logging trucks there was, and how many road kill possums there was. Both sets of numbers were mind boggling. I do hope what is causing the cancer can be discovered soon.
Ipswich Shire Eastern flanks