Two Tasmanian Devils have begun their journey to Auckland Zoo as part of a program which aims to raise awareness of the plight of the species.
Smiley and Levi, the two male devils left Launceston today to join Herod, another ambassador devil in the ‘Strangely Beautiful Australia’ exhibit in the New Zealand Zoo.
Heading along for the journey will be a specialist liaison to ensure a smooth transition into their new enclosure. Their impending arrival follows months of preparation with both state, federal and international government organisations.
This will be Auckland Zoo’s second transfer of devils under the Save the Tasmanian Devil Program’s Ambassador Program, after receiving four in 2012.
There are currently 45 Tasmanian Devils held in 14 Ambassador Zoos around the world, including America, Europe and Japan.
I would like to thank the tireless work by all those involved with the Save the Tasmanian Devil Program, and the Ambassador Program – and wish the devils a safe journey abroad.