A MOVE to adopt the Tasmanian devil as the state's first animal emblem has won the support of wildlife carers and the tourism industry.
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Tasmanians have six weeks to have their say on whether the iconic creature should become the state's animal ambassador.
Environment Minister Matthew Groom yesterday announced the proposal, hoping it would help the plight of the creature against Devil Facial Tumour Disease.
"Tasmania is currently the only state not to have an official animal emblem," Mr Groom said.
"The devil is recognised around the world as uniquely Tasmanian and we believe it is a very worthy contender to be our first official animal emblem.
"Giving this recognition to the Tasmanian devil could also help attract resources to the important fight to save this iconic creature."
Trowunna Wildlife Park owner Androo Kelly said it was a good choice.
"The Tasmanian devil is definitely the best ambassador animal and it draws the attention to the devil and to our unique wildlife overall," he said.
Mr Kelly said the animal continually needed support to fight the disease.
"Currently, people might think there's more optimism, but there's a lot of work to do - it's an ongoing process," he said.
Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary owner Greg Irons said it was a no-brainer.
"This animal is not only a Tasmanian icon, it's known around the world," he said.
"Tasmania is the arc of Australian wildlife. We need an animal emblem."
Tourism Industry Council Tasmania chief executive Luke Martin also welcomed the move.
"It's an excellent idea to make the Tassie devil the state's faunal emblem," Mr Martin said.
He said he personally thought the state could go one step further and replace the state's red lion badge with the devil.
Tasmanian historian Reg Watson said an animal emblem was long overdue, but his preference for the emblem was the Tasmanian Tiger.
"I would prefer the tiger, I think it's much more mysterious," Mr Watson said.
"I hope people do consider alternatives," he said.
The government will make a decision at the end of the public consultation period.
Tasmanians can share their views by emailing tassieemblem@dpipwe. tas.gov.au or by writing to The Tasmanian Animal Emblem Project Manager, Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment, GPO Box 44, Hobart, 7001.