Scientific name: Dasycercus blythi
Conservation Status: Vulnerable
Body length: 135-165 mm
Weight: 75-110 g
Gestation: about 30 days
Number of young: Up to 8
Distribution: The Simpson, Tirari and Strzelecki Deserts in central Australia
Habitat: Spinifex grasslands
Description: The Mulgara is a native marsupial. It has tan-ginger fur on its top and tail that whitens underneath. It is a compact, stocky animal with a head in slightly bigger proportion to the rest of the body. The Mulgara has eight nipples in its pouch.
Diet: The Mulgara is a carnivore and eats a variety of insects, lizards and small mammals depending on availability.
In the wild: Like many small Australian marsupials, the Mulgara gets all of its water requirements from food. This means it does not have to search for water to drink. This is very useful for living in the desert.
Threats: The main threat to the Mulgara is habitat destruction which results in a loss of food sources. Introduced predators, such as foxes and cats, are also threats.
At Perth Zoo: The Mulgara is located in the Nocturnal House.
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.
Did you know? Although the Mulgara is usually nocturnal, it can be seen out in the sun in the cold winter months.
Download the Brush-tailed Mulgara Fact Sheet (pdf).
