The Tasmanian devil is native to the island of Tasmania, which is part of Australia. Its natural habitat includes a range of environments within Tasmania, from coastal heathlands to forests. Tasmanian devils are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats, but they are most commonly associated with forests and wooded areas.
Their preferred habitats often include:
1. **Forest Ecosystems:** Tasmanian devils are frequently found in forests, including dry eucalyptus forests and wetter, more temperate rainforests. These habitats provide them with cover, as well as a diversity of prey species and carrion.
2. **Coastal Areas:** They can also be found in coastal heathlands, which are open, shrub-dominated environments along the coastlines of Tasmania.
3. **Human-Altered Landscapes:** Tasmanian devils have adapted to living in areas influenced by human activities, such as farmlands and settlements, where they may scavenge for food.
4. **Cave Systems:** Some Tasmanian devils may use cave systems for shelter and breeding.
Despite their adaptability, Tasmanian devils are known for being shy and elusive, often emerging during the night to forage for food. They are well-suited to a variety of environments within Tasmania, and their diet, which includes scavenging carrion, allows them to thrive in these habitats.