Rufous Bettong
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Aepyprymnus rufescens or the Rufous Bettong
The Rufous bettong likes to eat herbs, grasses, roots and tubers during the night. They may also dig up and eat fungi. Like the red kangaroo, they do not need to drink free water, but may do so when it is available and there is a drought. The rufous bettong likes to hang out in areas that are sparsely vegetated but are close to areas with a dense understorey to escape from predators.
The Rufous bettong sleeps in nests that they build and fill with grassy material. However, they frequently change their nests, and may use up to five at a time. Rufous bettongs are not really social, but some males may defend up to two females and will consequently spend a lot of time with them. Breeding occurs all year round, with females giving birth after 22-24 days of gestation. Mothers give birth to one baby, which stays with them for about 23 weeks, sharing the nest and feeding with them.
Did you know...
- Rufous bettongs sleep in nests that they build and fill with grassy material.
- They frequently change their nests, and may use up to five at a time that are located throughout their home range.
- Like the red kangaroo, they do not need to drink free water, getting enough water from the food they eat.
- Breeding occurs all year round, with females giving birth after 22-24 days of gestation.
- Mothers give birth to one baby, which stays with them for about 23 weeks. It starts off in the pouch, but eventually will share the nest and feed with its mum.
Where Rufous Bettongs dwell across Australia:
