Numbat
The Numbat (Myrmecobius Fasciatus) is a small marsupial which is found in South-west Western Australia. Numbats are small in size growing to approximately 35-45 cm and weighing approximately 280- 550 grams. Numbats have coarse reddish-brown fur on their shoulders and heads which gradually changes into prominent black and white stripes on their backs, these stripes allow Numbats to effectively camouflage into their surroundings and to protect themselves from predators which include foxes, cats, dogs, dingoes, snakes and some birds. Numbats have long, bushy tail which when elevated give the marsupial the appearance of a bottle brush. Being primarily insectivores, Numbats have an extremely narrow head and snout and long sticky tongue which allows them to collect termites in narrow cavities such as logs, small holes etc. Unlike the majority of marsupials which are nocturnal, Numbats are diurnal meaning they are only active during the day in which they are closely linked to termite movement. Numbats inhabit forests and woodlands in which they shelter in hollow logs or burrows waiting for termites as Numbats require approximately 20 000 termites per day! Numbats are endangered and are in threat of a loss of habitat due to land clearing, fires and predation. With approximately 1500 Numbats left in the wild associations such as Project Numbat are actively raising awareness of Numbat conservation in hope to protect Numbats from extinction in the near future. By raising awareness communities and schools alike are informed on the significance of protecting our native wildlife.
Kids Cyber: http://www.kidscyber.com.au accessed 6/08/14.
Numbat: http://www.numbat.org.au accessed 6/08/14.
Koala
Koalas (Phasclarctos Cincereus) are small bear-like marsupials whom weigh between 4kg -14kg and often inhabit Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia where there are numerous eucalyptus trees, which Koalas rarely leave. With large furry ears, a large black nose, sharp claws and no tail, Koalas are often considered small bears however this is not the case. Koalas are strictly marsupials who are closely related to Kangaroos and Wombats whom also have pouches which they use to protect their young. Koalas are herbivores and live off Eucalyptus leaves; the Koala is one of three animals which can live off this diet. The Aboriginal meaning of the Koalas name is ‘no drink’; this is because Koalas receive 90% of their hydration from Eucalyptus leaves. Koalas are often seen as extremely sleepy and almost drunk, this is because of the great effort it takes Koalas to digest eucalyptus leaves and cling to trees all day which their sharp claws come in handy for. Unfortunately, Koalas are in threat of extinction due to loss of habitat, urbanisation of areas, fires, droughts, road deaths, hunting and disease. The Koala population has dropped by approximately 90% in the last decade with only around 2000-8000 koalas left in the wild. Not surprisingly, Koalas are an extremely important part of Australian culture and contribute approximately $1.1 -$2.5 billion to tourism per year as well as appearing in numerous dreamtime and creation stories.
Habitat Advocate: http://www.habitatadvocate.com.au accessed 6/08/14
Kangaroo
Kangaroos are one of Australia’s most iconic animals and belong to the Macropodoidea family which includes Kangaroos, Wallabies, Wallaroos, tree-Kangaroos, bettong and rat-kangaroos. With over 60 different species of Kangaroos, Kangaroos are extremely adaptable and inhabit areas all over Australia including rainforests, grasslands, cold-climate areas, beaches, tropical woodlands and even golf courses! Kangaroos belong to the marsupial group ‘Macropods’, Macropods all have strong back legs and long feet which allows them to hop and use their tails for balance. Kangaroos can travel up to 48km per hour by hopping and can leap around 9 metres. Like most marsupials all female Kangaroos have a pouch in which they keep their young, this protects them from danger and predators. Kangaroos are herbivores which means their diet consists of grasses and plants and allows them to go for long periods of time without water due to their extremely efficient kidneys. Most kangaroos are nocturnal however, some are said to be active during the early morning and the late afternoon. There is no great concern for the kangaroo population, yet like any animal they are still affected by loss of habitat, hunting, drought and wildfires. For thousands of years kangaroos were essential for the survival of Indigenous people who hunted kangaroos for food as well as their furs and skin for warmth. To this day kangaroos are still hunted however, under strict government rules in order to protect the kangaroo population. The kangaroo is an unofficial symbol of Australia and appears on the Australian coat of arms, on coins and even on planes! By ensuring kangaroos and other Australian animals are protected for the future we are protecting Australian culture.