The Big Tasmanian Tiger
Height
Unknown
Year Built
Address
Mole Creek, TAS 7304
The Lowdown
The Big Tasmanian Tiger stands as a poignant memorial in Mole Creek, commemorating the thylacine - the iconic striped marsupial carnivore that was declared extinct in 1936. This oversized sculpture depicts the Tasmanian Tiger in its distinctive form, with the characteristic stripes across its back and the stiff, kangaroo-like tail that made it unique among predators. Mole Creek sits at the edge of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, territory where thylacines once hunted. The Big Tasmanian Tiger reminds visitors of what was lost when the last known thylacine died at Hobart Zoo, while keeping alive the hope that persists in Tasmania that perhaps, somewhere in the wilderness, the tiger still survives.
Did you know?
"Despite being called 'tigers', thylacines were marsupials, not cats"
History
The thylacine, or Tasmanian Tiger, was the largest known carnivorous marsupial of modern times. Hunted to extinction by farmers who blamed them for livestock losses, and suffering from habitat destruction and disease, the last known thylacine died at Hobart's Beaumaris Zoo on 7 September 1936 - now commemorated as National Threatened Species Day. Mole Creek, gateway to the wild country where thylacines once roamed, is a fitting location for this memorial. The Big Tasmanian Tiger keeps the species in public memory while scientists work on de-extinction projects that might one day bring the thylacine back.
More Fun Facts
- •The last known thylacine died at Hobart Zoo on 7 September 1936
- •Thylacines could open their jaws an extraordinary 80 degrees
- •Despite being called 'tigers', thylacines were marsupials, not cats
- •Unconfirmed sightings of thylacines continue to be reported
- •Scientists are working on de-extinction projects to bring back the thylacine
Visiting Tips
- 💡Visit the Mole Creek Karst National Park caves nearby
- 💡The Trowunna Wildlife Sanctuary is excellent for seeing Tasmanian devils
- 💡The Walls of Jerusalem National Park is accessible from Mole Creek
- 💡Try the famous Mole Creek honey and leather goods
Opening Hours
Outdoor sculpture accessible at all times.
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