Helmsworth (Thor) and Pataky Release Tasmanian Devil Mommy
In 2020 the project to reintroduce Tasmanian devils to the Australia mainland – after a 3000-year absence – included a female named Adventurous Lisa. This week the little devil did her part for the cause when she gave birth to three joeys.
The new mom was among a group of 11 released into a 1,000-acre wildlife sanctuary in Australia's Barrington Tops. Chris Helmworth (Thor) and Elsa Pataky (Fast and Furious) are volunteers for the rewilding project. In fact the couple had let loose Adventurous Lisa.
The conservation project is a collaboration between Aussie Ark, Re:wild, WildArk, and the Australian Reptile Park. Since the first release in 2020 another 21 adults have been set free in the sanctuary, and to date they’ve generated 16 baby joeys. Now there are three more, thanks to devil Lisa’s contribution.
Tasmanian devils (Sarcophilus harrisii) are mostly found on their namesake island and are considered endangered. They once thrived on mainland Australia, but were driven off more than 3000 years ago, probably with the rise of dingo populations. Conservationists believe their reintroduction can go a long way to help restore natural ecosystems.
“As native apex predators and the world’s largest carnivorous marsupials, Tasmanian devils help control feral cats and foxes that threaten other endangered and endemic species.” according to Re:Wild. “And because they are scavengers, they help keep their home clean and free of disease.”
The animals wear radio collars with transmitters, and are monitored by camera traps and regular surveys. That’s how we’re able to know all about Adventurous Lisa and her three new joeys. (If not her gentleman caller).
Photo credit: Aussie Ark
Photo credit: Re:Wild
