Amputa (Dasycercus hillieri)

The amputa lives in the Simpson Desert. There is limited information on the origins of the amputa. It is believed that the population of the amputa is dependent on the quality of each season. This species classified as “endangered”. This species was once considered a subspecies of mulgara and is thought to be identical in appearance and behavior (except feeding)

Amputa are not fond of the heat and will retreat into their burrow. Burrows can be found on sand dunes possible in close proximity to other amputa burrows. Amputa tend to be very social with one another. Amputa are primarily nocturnal, probably more so in the summer to avoid the heat; however some amputa will enjoy the sun on warmer winter days.

Sand colored fur covers the back of the amputa (possibly as a survival tool) and fades into a pale grey on the underbelly and chin. The first half of tail has the same coloration as the body; the second half of the tail is covered in bushy, black fur. Short, round ears and a short nose are also present on the amputa. The tail of the amputa averages 100mm, the head and body together average 180mm, and the total body weight is about 130g.

The amputa will eat large arthropods and small vertebrates on occasion.

Breeding season occurs during the winter months. It is believed that gestation lasts for at least one month. A single littler can produce up to eight young. When young reach about four months of age they are completely weaned from their mother.

Further Information on the Amputa:

Bibliography

A Field Guide to the Mammals of Australia, Menkhorst, P. and Knight, F. ©2001.

Action Plan for Australian Marsupials and Monotremes, Australian Department of the Environment and Heritage, 8/8/04, http://www.deh.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/action/marsupials/16.html.