Northern Marsupial Mole

Northern Marsupial Mole (Notoryctes caurinus)

The Marsupial Mole

The northern marsupial mole is an endangered species that lives in Central Australia. This species is also known as the “blind sand burrower”. Northern marsupial moles are endangered due to predators such as the fox, the dingo, and cats; another possible reason is the declining presence of food sources. There is very limited information on this species due to its secretive nature.

Average Northern marsupial moles measure 130mm including the head and body. A very short tail is preset (only about 20mm). The head is pointed to assist in burrowing. Strong limbs are present with paws that are more like scoops. There are no eyes present and there are mere openings for ears. Plenty of fine yellow fur covers the body of the northern marsupial mole. This species is slightly smaller than the northern marsupial mole

Northern marsupial moles are solitary creatures that spend most of their time burrowing in the sandy soil. The species will dig shallow tunnels but burrows are much deeper in the soil. It is believed that the northern marsupial mole, after heavy rainfall, will come to the surface.

The diet of the northern marsupial mole consists mainly of larvae and pupae. This species most likely seeks out food using scent due to the lack of sight and minimal hearing.

Breeding information is unavailable about this species.

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Bibliography

History of the Marsupial Moles, Withers, P. and Thomson, G., 8/8/04, http://www.zoology.uwa.edu.au/staff/pwithers/marsupialmole/history.htm.


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