Gilberts Potoroo (Potorous gilbertii)

Gilberts Potoroo


Gilbert’s potoroo was named after the man who originally found the species in 1840; John Gilbert. There are currently no wild members of this species. Gilbert’s potoroo can only be found in Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve. In 1994 a Gilbert’s potoroo was discovered at the Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve after not being seen in over one hundred years. This species is classified as “endangered”. Due to the recent rediscovery of the Gilbert’s potoroo, there is little information available on the species.

The average head and body measurement of a Gilbert’s potoroo is roughly 280mm with an average tail measurement of 220mm. 850g seems to be the average weight of a Gilbert’s potoroo. Coloration is a rusty with grey hairs dispersed throughout. The underbelly is white and the head is grey. Gilber’s potoroo has short, round ears with some pink coloration on the inside. The tail is colored similarly to the rest of the body. The front paws are curled under.

Gilbert’s potoroo eats primarily and may eat some plant materials on occasion.

Breeding information on this species is unavailable.

Further Information on the Gilberts Potoroo:

Bibliography

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

Gilbert’s Potoroo, Green Apple, Inc., 8/8/04, http://www.greenapple.com/~jorp/amzanim/menua.htm.