Mary, a two-year-old Tasmanian devil, was recaptured Tuesday night in bushland near Oxenford after a two-week search. The marsupial escaped her enclosure at Paradise Country on June 2 by performing an “abnormally large leap,” according to a Village Roadshow Theme Parks spokesperson. She was located in unstable condition less than two kilometres from the park and is now receiving veterinary care.
Despite being away from her enclosure for two weeks, search teams found evidence that Mary was successfully hunting in the wild, including discovered remains of kangaroo and wallaby carcasses.
How was the animal recovered?
Wildlife staff and specialists spent fourteen days tracking the animal using a combination of sniffer dogs, thermal drone technology, and humane traps. A spokesperson for Village Roadshow Theme Parks confirmed that Mary was found at 8:30pm on Tuesday in bushland just off Kopps Road. Following her discovery, she was rushed to a specialist veterinary hospital to be stabilized.
What is the current health status of the devil?
Mary is currently in a stable condition and remains at the veterinary hospital for diagnostic testing. According to University of Queensland adjunct professor Al Mucci, the animal may require anywhere from 24 hours to a week to fully recover from the stress of “roughing it.” Veterinarians are prioritizing weight checks, monitoring for dehydration, and examining her for any injuries sustained while roaming, such as nicks or bruises, said Griffith University researcher Douglas Kerlin.
The successful recovery of the animal highlights the tension between captive management and the natural survival instincts of Tasmanian devils. While experts like Dr. Kerlin note that these animals are highly efficient at consuming carcasses, the risks of suburban life—such as car strikes or interactions with domestic dogs—remain significant threats to captive-bred animals lacking experience in urban environments.
Were the enclosure protocols adequate?
The Department of Primary Industries (DPI) conducted an onsite investigation following the escape and determined the enclosure was compliant with all legislated requirements. Animal Biosecurity general manager Allison Crook stated that while the department is satisfied with the facility’s safety standards, the animal is “not out of the woods yet” regarding her physical recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did the Tasmanian devil escape?
According to staff at Paradise Country, the two-year-old devil escaped her enclosure on June 2 by making an “abnormally large leap.”
What did the search teams find during the two-week period?
Searchers found devil droppings and remains of kangaroo and wallaby carcasses, which indicated that the animal had been successfully finding food in the surrounding bushland.
Is the facility facing regulatory action?
No. The Department of Primary Industries confirmed that an investigation into the premises found the enclosures were compliant with all legislated requirements.
What measures do you believe are most effective for preventing the escape of captive-bred wildlife in suburban areas?