Fauna

Tasmania has one of the largest collection of marsupials in Australia, and over a dozen species of bird are native to the state. Undoubtedly the most famous animal in Tasmania is the Tasmanian Devil, named by early European settlers because of its eerie nocturnal growl. The Tasmanian Tiger was the largest carnivorous Tasmanian marsupial, but is commonly believed to be extinct. Other native animals include the Black Currawong, Orange Bellied Parrot, Bennett's Wallaby and Golden Possum.

The absence of non-native predators such as foxes and dingoes result in little competition for resources and allows native species to thrive.

Flora

Tree species common to Tasmania include the Tasmanian Blue Gum, the flower of which is the state floral symbol, and various types of pines. The Huon pine grows in southern rainforests and apart from its exquisite smell and touch, is one of the best boat-building timbers known to man. Another Tasmanian pine is the King William pine. Smaller plants include the Tasmanian Waratah, which proliferates on the west coast, the Leatherwood tree and the Flying Duck Orchid.

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