New Study Reveals Tasmanian Tiger's Hunting Style Differed From Wolves
Summary
A new study shows the Tasmanian tiger hunted small, agile prey with a rapid bite rather than behaving like a wolf. Researchers say the extinct marsupial was misjudged for decades and that de-extinction efforts are now underway.
Key Points
- The new study finds that the Tasmanian tiger, or Thylacinus, hunted small prey such as rabbits and bandicoots rather than large animals.
- Researchers say its skull and jaw were adapted for rapid biting, and its body structure was unlike that of wolves despite external similarities.
- The species was driven to extinction in Tasmania after being blamed for livestock losses, with the last known animal dying in 1936.
- A separate team is working on de-extinction efforts, while the study highlights the need to protect indigenous communities’ views in any revival plans.
