Rufous rat-kangaroo
| Rufous rat-kangaroo[1] | |
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| File:Rufous getting into pouch.JPG | |
| Scientific classification | |
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| Genus: |
Aepyprymnus
Garrod, 1875
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| Species: |
A. rufescens
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| Binomial name | |
| Aepyprymnus rufescens (Gray, 1837)
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| File:Rufous Bettong.JPG | |
| Distribution of the rufous rat-kangaroo | |
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The rufous rat-kangaroo (Aepyprymnus rufescens), also known as the rufous bettong, is a small marsupial species of the family Potoroidae found in Australia. It is found in coastal and subcoastal regions from Newcastle in New South Wales to Cooktown in Queensland, and was formerly found in the Murray River Valley of New South Wales and Victoria.[3] It is not classified as threatened.[2] The rufous bettong is about the size of a full grown rabbit.
The rufous rat-kangaroo is the only member of its genus, and is the largest of all the potoroids. It is generally grey with a hint of reddish brown and its scientific name means reddish high-rump.[4] It was once thought of as a solitary nocturnal animal, but recent observation indicates that the rufous rat-kangaroo may form loose, polygynous associations.[4] It feeds mostly on tubers and fungi, but also on leaves and other vegetation.[3]
Breeding times occur throughout the year, once the female has reached maturity. This is generally at 11 months. The male reaches maturity between 12 and 13 months. Once mature, the female is capable of breeding every three-week intervals. Once successfully bred, the gestation of the young is just under a month, about 22–24 days. After the young are born they live within the pouch for about 16 weeks. Upon leaving the pouch, the Joey will stay near the mother for about 7 weeks, while it gets used to fending for itself.[4]
