Eastern quoll

Tüpfelbeutelmarder ( Dasyurus viverrinus )

The Tüpfelbeutelmarder or Eastern Quoll ( Dasyurus viverrinus ) is a species of the family of Dasyuridae.

Features

This type reaches a body length from 28 to 45 cm with a weight from 700 to 2000 g The males are slightly larger and heavier than females in general. There are found side by side two color forms. The top of the lighter is light brown, the dark black. Both forms have the typical for this genus large white spots on the upper side; the tail of the Tüpfelbeutelmarders is unspotted, the hind feet have only four toes.

Dissemination

Originally Tüpfelbeutelmarder southeastern Australia from the eastern South Australia to northern New South Wales and Tasmania was widespread. Beginning of the 20th century took the population size sharply, presumably by an epidemic. Since no animals were detected, so the Tüpfelbeutelmarder today occurs only in Tasmania and the islands of Bass Strait on the mainland.

Habitat

As habitat bushland, dry forests, but also cultivated land can be used. In eucalyptus forests with adjoining pasture, the highest densities are achieved.

Way of life

Tüpfelbeutelmarder live solitary, but there are large areas of overlap of home ranges. Main component of the diet are insects, as well as ground- nesting birds, small mammals and fruits and grasses are eaten. Carcasses of larger animals are also used.