Other Names: Dargawarra
Scientific Name: Notomys alexis
Conservation Status: Least Concern
Body Length: 9.5–11.2 cm
Weight: 27–45 g
Gestation: 32 days
Number of young: 3–4
Distribution: Central and Western Australia
Habitat: Arid regions
Description: The Spinifex Hopping-mouse has a light brown coat with a grey-white belly. It has large ears and a long, brush-tipped tail that is 13–15 cm long.
Diet: The Spinifex Hopping-mouse is an omnivore and eats seeds, roots, shoots and invertebrates.
In the wild: They avoid the heat of the desert by sleeping in deep burrows during the day. At dusk, they come out to feed. Spinifex Hopping-mice will usually move around on all fours, however, they will hop around on their strong hindlegs to move fast.
Threats: Habitat destruction is a threat to the survival of the Spinifex Hopping-mouse.
At Perth Zoo: The Nocturnal House is the perfect place to see the Spinifex Hopping-mouse.
Join the Perth Zoo-coordinated Tiwest Night Stalk from 1 September to 16 October and spotlight for native animals in your local bushland. Tiwest Night Stalk is a great way to become involved in community conservation action and to learn about our native animals, their habitat and their threats.
Download the Spinifex Hopping Mouse Fact Sheet (pdf).
