. A life reconstruction of Thylacoleo carnifex.  (After Edmund Gill, Royal Society of Victoria)

Much research went into the creation of Thylacoleo - Australia's Marsupial Lion.  Of the marsupial mammal groups which I have studied in depth, the thylacoleonids are one which I have always found especially intriguing.  In October of 1996, I visited the Naracoorte Caves Conservation Park in far southeastern South Australia, which is a place of particular interest to Thylacoleo enthusiasts.  Many striking examples of the animal's fossil remains have been unearthed within the park's Victoria Fossil Cave.  I have spent most of my life collecting literature and other material related to the study of Thylacoleo and various other marsupial families.

    The construction of this website was a rather difficult and time consuming project, as Thylacoleo has been a rather controversial animal until somewhat recently.  Although over 150 years have passed since the first fossils of Thylacoleo were described, the animal remained one of the great enigmas of Australian palaeontology until the late decades of the 20th century.  Over the course of the past 25 years, using modern scientific techniques, we have gained considerable new insight into the biology of this fascinating and unique group of mammals.  However, the debate still continues regarding exactly how Thylacoleo fits in taxonomically among its marsupial relations.

    I feel that it was important that this site be created, as it will act as a compilation of much of the knowledge that has been gained about the Thylacoleonidae.  It is a completely non-profit endeavor presented as a public service, and is dedicated entirely to the advancement of science and learning.  I hope that it will act as a vehicle for increasing public appreciation and knowledge about one of the world's most amazing extinct mammals.

    I wish to extend my gratitude to all of the dedicated authors, zoologists and photographers throughout time who through their work have either directly or indirectly made the existence of this web site possible..

Cameron R. Campbell
Author and Curator
Thylacoleo - Australia's Marsupial Lion