Kakadu dunnart facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Kakadu dunnart |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Sminthopsis
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| Species: |
bindi
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| Distribution of the Kakadu dunnart | |
The Kakadu dunnart (Sminthopsis bindi) is a small, mouse-like dunnart that lives in Australia. Scientists first officially described it in 1994. Its closest relative is the Carpentarian dunnart.
This little animal is usually about 50 to 85 millimeters (2 to 3.3 inches) long, not including its tail. Its tail adds another 60 to 105 millimeters (2.4 to 4.1 inches). So, its total length can be between 110 and 190 millimeters (4.3 to 7.5 inches). It weighs about 10 to 25 grams (0.35 to 0.88 ounces), which is like weighing a few quarters.
The Kakadu dunnart has grey fur. It is a bit gingery (reddish-brown) on its upper body and belly. Its feet are white.
Where the Kakadu Dunnart Lives
The Kakadu dunnart lives in the northern part of Australia. You can find it in the Top End of the Northern Territory, especially around the famous Kakadu National Park.
It likes to live in places with lots of rocks and trees. These areas are often hilly woodlands.
What the Kakadu Dunnart Eats
The Kakadu dunnart is a carnivore, meaning it eats meat. Its diet mainly includes small creatures. It probably eats arthropods, which are animals like spiders and centipedes. It also enjoys eating different kinds of insects.
Life and Habits
Scientists do not know much about the Kakadu dunnart. This is because it is a shy animal and not many studies have been done on it.
We do not know much about how these dunnarts live together. We also do not know a lot about their breeding habits or life cycle. However, scientists think they probably have their babies during the dry season in Australia. They might also dig burrows (tunnels in the ground) to live in.
