Tasmanian devils are endangered primarily due to a contagious cancer called Devil Facial Tumor Disease (DFTD), which has caused their population to decline by over 80% since the disease emerged in the mid-1990s. This disease is nearly always fatal, spreading rapidly between individuals through biting, and often leads to starvation because the tumors interfere with feeding.

Main Threats to Survival

• Devil Facial Tumor Disease (DFTD): DFTD is a unique transmissible cancer that predominantly affects Tasmanian devils on their face and mouth, making it difficult for them to eat and ultimately causing death.

• Low Genetic Diversity: Centuries of human persecution, such as hunting and poisoning by settlers, have reduced the devils' genetic diversity and left them more vulnerable to diseases like DFTD.

• Habitat Loss and Vehicle Strikes: Habitat destruction and roadkill have become additional threats, further impacting remaining populations.

• Historic Human Impact: Previous extermination efforts and ongoing human activities have contributed substantially to their decline.

Conservation Status and Efforts

• The Tasmanian devil is officially listed as "Endangered" on the IUCN Red List.

• Researchers and conservationists are working on breeding programs and developing vaccines to help the species survive and recover.

• Insurance populations in zoos and isolated areas help protect genetic diversity and are part of the broader recovery strategy.

In summary, the biggest reason Tasmanian devils are endangered is Devil Facial Tumor Disease, a highly contagious and deadly cancer, compounded by historical persecution, reduced genetic diversity, habitat destruction, and road accidents.