The bandicoot is a small marsupial that looks like a rat, however they are more closely related to rabbits. Bandicoots can be found in swamps, rainforests, wet & dry woodlands, and thickets of Australia. Out of 21 species, seven are listed as critically endangered or already extinct! They also have one of the shortest of all mammalian pregnancies…. 12 days!
First the Stats…
Scientific name: Perameles
Length: 11 – 32 inches
Weight: 0.4lbs – 3.5lbs
Lifespan: 3 – 7 years
Now on to the Facts!
1.) Bandicoots have strong hind legs made for jumping.
2.) The bandicoot is nocturnal (active at night).
3.) Dingoes, foxes, snakes, and wildcats are their main predators.
4.) They are omnivores (eat both plant and animals), feeding mainly on invertebrates.
5.) The sounds they produce are a snuffing sound, while they are searching for food, a piglet-like grunt when the food is detected, and also a high-pitched sound when scared.
But wait, there’s more on the bandicoot!
6.) These critters will aggressively defend their territory from anyone who tries to take it over!
7.) Bandicoots are typically solitary and only come together to mate.
Did you know…?
The bandicoot’s pouch faces backwards. This helps keep dirt form entering the mother’s pouch when she burrows for food.
8.) The baby spends approximately 54 days in the pouch, attached to the teat which provides milk. The mother’s pouch usually holds between 3 – 6 babies at once!
Now a Short Bandicoot Video!
Learn more about all kinds of cool critters here.
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