WATCH: Adorable Baby Tasmanian Devils Become Friends With Their Keeper

The Tasmanian devil is often misunderstood. When people think of Tasmanian devils, they think of Taz from Looney Toons. Taz is destructive, uncontrollable, and maybe a little crazy. People also know that Tasmanian devils are carnivorous, which makes them afraid that these critters from Down Under might eat them. It’s true: Exotic animals can be scary!

But in reality, these furry guys are no devils. Tim Faulker is a keeper at Devil Ark, a free-range Tasmanian devil sanctuary in New South Wales, Australia. He wants the public to have a better understanding of these incredible creatures.

In a video posted online, Faulker shows the zany, lovable activities of baby Tasmanian devils. The recording shows the lovable creatures running around the sanctuary, chasing Faulker. In other scenes, they climb up and down their keeper, yawn at the camera, and drink milk from a bottle. When the day is done, Faulker gives them some hard-earned belly rubs.

So, here’s the truth about devils: They do hunt and scavenge for prey. But they are also strong swimmers, they love to climb trees, and they are quick and hardy animals. They use their excellent sense of smell to look for food, but their sweet nature balances out their killer instincts. The bonds they form with both caretakers and each other are strong and lasting. Besides, when full-grown, they’re only about the size of a small dog! Plus, as Faulker’s video shows, they are pretty darn cute.

Tasmanian devils also are on the endangered species list. Because of this, it’s more important than ever to try to understand devils, rather than be afraid of them. If Tasmanian devils get support from us, we can help grow their population back to normal. Faulker isn’t just a keeper; he also raises money for Devil Ark and the sanctuary’s efforts to breed and nurture Tasmanian devils.

After seeing the video, you won’t be afraid of these little ones anymore!

SHARE this with your friends to help spread the word about baby Tasmanian devils.

(H/T: Honest to Paws)

Editor’s Note: This piece was first published in 2017.

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