Long-nosed BandicootIdentification and RescueNorma Henderson

Bandicoot Rat

Adult Long-nosed BandicootIdentification Colour grey above, cream

belly Nose is long and pointed Ears pointed

Adult 1.2kg

Identification features

Weight - An adult weighs between 850g and 1.5kg

Nose - long pointed Fur – Grey, cream under Teeth – even length Foot – long middle toe, 2nd

and 3rd toes joined

Development of youngPinkies 10g, Unfurred 30g, Milk chocolate fur 40g, Grey coarse fur 95g

Housing joeys

20g joeys

40g joey60g joeys

Housing juveniles

Young to 60-100g – secure container

Juveniles 100g to 200g outside

Food and feeding•Teach to lap

•Present food in dish

•Introduce mealworms

•Juveniles must have worms and insects

ThreatsMost common causes of death and injury Females killed by dogs

– unable to run fast when laden with young

Males killed by cars – wander further than females

Young – chased and injured by cats

Juveniles and adults - Whipper snipper

Handling and stress

They stress easily Adults need deep clean mulch Young need warmth, quiet

Handle with care Adults have strong back feet Juveniles need warm cosy

pouch Call co-ordinator immediately

DeathCheck the pouch for living young

Check the surroundings for straying young

Do autopsies to determine cause of death

Information

Australian Museum Complete book of Australian Mammals

Key Guide to Australian Mammals, Leonard Cronin

Readers Digest Encyclopaedia of Australian Wildlife

Small Mammals Identification and Care, Norma Henderson