What is the Tasmanian emblem?

The state emblems of Tasmania include the Tasmanian blue gum (Eucalyptus globulus) as floral emblem, the Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii) as animal emblem, the yellow wattlebird (Anthochaera paradoxa) as bird emblem, and crocoite as mineral emblem. The state coat of arms displays two thylacines (Tasmanian tigers) as supporters and the motto 'Ubertas et Fidelitas' (fertility and loyalty).

The Tasmanian blue gum was proclaimed the state floral emblem on 27 November 1962. The species is one of the world's largest hardwood trees, growing to more than 70 metres tall, and produces creamy white flowers. The blue gum is endemic to Tasmania and the south-east of the Australian mainland and has been planted across the world for timber, pulp, and shelterbelts. Its leaves and oil produce the distinctive eucalyptus aroma that flavours throat lozenges, decongestants, and Australian honey.

The Tasmanian devil was adopted as the state animal in 2015, though the species had been an unofficial state symbol for much longer. The carnivorous marsupial is found only in Tasmania in the wild, having been driven extinct on mainland Australia about 3,000 years ago. The species is currently endangered by devil facial tumour disease, a transmissible cancer first identified in 1996 that has reduced the wild population by about 80 per cent. Recovery programmes at Maria Island, Mount William, and the Save the Tasmanian Devil Programme work to maintain disease-free populations.

The thylacine, depicted on the state coat of arms, was the world's largest carnivorous marsupial. It survived in Tasmania until the last known individual died at Hobart's Beaumaris Zoo on 7 September 1936. Despite occasional sighting reports, the species is officially extinct, and 7 September is now observed as Threatened Species Day in Australia. Crocoite, a bright red-orange lead chromate mineral mined at Dundas in western Tasmania, was adopted as mineral emblem in 2000 and is considered Tasmania's signature mineral specimen.