Southern Marsupial Mole

Notoryctes typhlops

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Mammalia · Notoryctemorphia · Notoryctidae

About

The southern marsupial mole, also known as the itjaritjari or itjari-itjari, is a mole-like marsupial found in the western central deserts of Australia. It is extremely adapted to a burrowing way of life. It has large, shovel-like forepaws and silky fur, which helps it move easily. It also lacks complete eyes as it has little need for them. It feeds on earthworms and larvae.

Fun Fact

Southern marsupial moles have no functional eyes — just vestigial lenses under the skin — and they 'swim' through loose desert sand, leaving no permanent tunnel behind them.

Quick Facts

Habitat

Sandy deserts

Diet

Insectivore

Lifespan

1-2 years

Threats

Climate Change
Off-Road Vehicles

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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