In Tasmania though, a combination of isolation (which has enabled the exclusion of such devastating introduced predators as the European Fox) and the rugged, mountainous terrain (which has slowed down the ever intruding process of land clearance) has enabled the great majority of native mammals to survive in healthy populations.

Predators like the Tasmanian Devil, once widespread on mainland Australia although having died out there many centuries ago are thriving and common in Tasmania. Similarly the Eastern Barred bandicoot which is now restricted to one small colony in Victoria, and terribly endangered there, can he regarded as common in many parts of Tasmania. The sight of so many dead animals killed by vehicles on Tasmanian roads, whilst distressing, is an indication of the healthy state of the populations of many of our mammals.

The objective of producing this volume is not simply to produce a picture book of Tasmanian mammals, but to help create an awareness of the animal treasures which coexist with us on this island. With very little effort it is possible to observe and enjoy the private lives of so many native species in their natural habitat.