The Tasmanian Devil Unzoo is a pioneering wildlife attraction located on the Tasman Peninsula in Taranna, Tasmania. It is about an hour’s drive southeast of Hobart via the Arthur Highway. This Unzoo offers a unique experience where animals are not confined to cages, allowing visitors to observe them in their natural habitats.

What is an Unzoo?

The concept of an Unzoo is to create a space where animals can live freely without the constraints of traditional zoo enclosures. At the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo, there are no boundary fences, enabling local wildlife to interact naturally with the environment. This approach allows visitors to witness authentic animal behaviors and fosters a deeper connection with nature. The Unzoo is designed to replicate or restore natural landscapes, providing a habitat that is as close to the wild as possible.

Animal Encounters

Visitors to the Unzoo can expect to see a variety of native Tasmanian animals. The site features four Tasmanian devil habitats where guests can get up close to these fascinating marsupials. These habitats include the Devil Den, the inside-out original Unzoo, the Farm Yard, and the Fern Forest. Additionally, the Unzoo offers opportunities to hand-feed free-ranging wallabies and kangaroos, observe wild parrots, and encounter echidnas and pademelons. The area is also home to nearly 100 bird species and various insects, some of which are found nowhere else.

Guided Tours and Presentations

The Unzoo offers guided tours that provide insights into the local wildlife and the history of the land. These tours are included with admission and allow visitors to explore the bushland environment with knowledgeable guides. Throughout the day, there are scheduled wildlife presentations, including Tasmanian devil feedings and bird watching sessions, which offer a closer look at the animals and their behaviors. The daily schedule includes multiple Tasmanian devil feedings, kangaroo hand feeding, and bird presentations, ensuring that visitors have ample opportunities to engage with the wildlife.

Devil Tracker Eco Tour

For those interested in a more in-depth experience, the Devil Tracker Eco Tour is available. This 1.5-hour tour takes visitors into the nearby forest by 4WD to track wild Tasmanian devils. Participants can see conservation efforts in action, check remote cameras, and use tracking equipment. This tour requires a separate booking and provides a unique opportunity to learn about the conservation of these endangered animals. The tour runs twice daily for groups of up to six people, offering a personalized experience.

Habitats and Conservation

The Unzoo is dedicated to conservation and education. It features diverse habitats, including the Devil Den, Farm Yard, and Fern Forest, where visitors can learn about the ecosystem and the importance of preserving it. The removal of boundary fences allows wild animals to come and go freely, promoting a natural ecosystem. Night vision cameras capture the nocturnal activities of creatures like bandicoots and potoroos, offering insights into their lives after dark. The Unzoo also emphasizes the interdependence of plants, insects, birds, and animals, highlighting the delicate balance of the ecosystem.

Visitor Information

The Tasmanian Devil Unzoo is open daily from 9 am, and it is recommended to allocate around two hours for a visit. Admission includes the Unzoo Guided Tour, and there is an option to purchase a discount double pass for entry to both the Unzoo and the nearby Port Arthur Historic Site. The Unzoo also offers a money-back guarantee if visitors are not satisfied with their experience. This guarantee ensures that guests leave with a comprehensive understanding of the Unzoo concept and the conservation efforts being undertaken.

For those planning a visit, it is advisable to check the daily schedule for feeding times and presentations to make the most of the experience. The Unzoo provides a unique opportunity to engage with Tasmania's wildlife in a setting that prioritizes the well-being and natural behavior of the animals. Whether you're interested in the iconic Tasmanian devils or the diverse birdlife, the Unzoo offers an educational and immersive experience that is unlike any traditional zoo.