Potoroidae Archives - NatureWorks

Potoroidae - Bettongs, Potoroos, Rat Kangaroos

There are 12 species of small marsupials in this family, including four extinct species. They are all native to Australia.

They are brown to grayish-brown. They have long, thick tails; long hind feet; small front legs; and triangular heads.

They hop like kangaroos and land on their hind legs and tails when they hop at high speeds. They land on their front feet when they hop at slower speeds.

They stand upright by balancing themselves on their long hind feet.

The species in this family are herbivores. Most species eat fungi and tubers. Some species may also eat insects.

Rufous Bettong
(Aepyprymnus rufescens)

The rufous bettong is found from northeastern Queensland to northeastern New South Wales in Australia. IUCN Redlist Status: Least Concern
Tasmanian Bettong
(Bettongia gaimardi)

The Tasmanian bettong uses its prehensile tail to pick up and carry grasses and brush when it is foraging for food or collecting nesting materials. It is found in Tasmania. IUCN Redlist Status: Near Threatened
Woylie
(Bettongia penicillata)

The woylie is found in Western Australia, Australia. IUCN Redlist Status: Near Threatened
Northern Bettong
(Bettongia tropica)

The northern bettong is found in Queensland, Australia. IUCN Redlist Status: Endangered
Desert Rat-Kangaroo
(Caloprymnus campestris)

The desert rat kangaroo has not been spotted since 1935. It was once found in Queensland and South Australia. IUCN Redlist Status:: Extinct
Gilbert's Potoroo
(Potorous gilbertii)

The introduction of foxes and feral cats has caused to population of Gilbert's potoroo to decline. It is found in Western Australia. IUCN Redlist Status: Critically Endangered
Broad-Faced Potoroo
(Potorous platyops)

The broad-face potoroo was last recorded in 1875. It was found in Western Australia and South Australia. IUCN Redlist Status: Extinct
Long-Nosed Potoroo
(Potorous tridactylus)

The long-nosed potoroo is about the size of a rabbit. It is found on the southeastern coast of Australia. IUCN Redlist Status: Near Threatened