C’mon you guys, your Killing me!

November 29, 2007

Tassie Devil
Photo: Wikipedia

Devil in trouble

The Tasmanian Devil is in deep trouble. Since 1995 they have had to contend with the terrible facial cancer which is bringing them to the brink of extinction. Some scientists say they may only have 10-20 years left unless something drastic is done to protect them.

The Disease

The facial carcinoma, Devil Facial Tumor Disease (DFTD) disrupts the devils ability to feed and they die from malnutrition usually within 6 months. What a terrible way for these wonderful creatures to die.

Scientist have stated a drop in the devil’s numbers has led to a loss of genetic diversity. This in turn has meant that the devil’s immune system does not fight the cancers.

Please see quote below from Dr Katherine Belov of the Sydney University’s School of Veterinary Science.

“Devils do not mount an immune response against DFTD, This is due to a loss of genetic diversity in the most important immune gene region of the genome: the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC).”

“In the case of devils, genetic diversity at the MHC is so low, and the MHC type of tumour and host are so alike, that the host does not see the tumour as ‘non-self’.”

So a loss of habitat due to logging has reduced the devil’s gene pool which has meant the devil’s are unable to effectively fight this disease.

The Greed of big logging companies

Another disaster caused by the greed of big companies, they must be stopped. Gunns and co, along with their friends in high places, must be sent a clear message that we as citizens of this country will not stand for the continued destruction of our environment and the animals that live there.

We can save them

The devil’s in the Northwest of Tasmania are basically not yet affected by DFTD, however the continued clear-fell logging by companies such as Gunn’s will further threaten this wonderful creature and cause them to go the way of their extinct cousins the Tasmanian Tiger.

This is our opportunity, stop the clear fell logging in Tasmania and especially in the Northwest area and right away we start to give this wonderful creature a fighting chance.

We can’t bring the Tassie Tiger back, but given the right attitude we can save the Tassie Devil, SO;

Tassie Devil
Picture: Looney Tunes via Wikipedia

Websites: Tassie Devil on Wikipedia and Save The Tassie Devil



Written by Craig · Filed Under Animals, Environment 

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