The bilby is a small, nocturnal marsupial that lives in the arid outback region of Western Australia in the Tanami, Gibson and Great Sandy deserts. Once widespread throughout the continent, the bilby is now an endangered animal due to habitat destruction. The bilby is a very small, delicate animal being only 11 inches long, with large ears to help radiate heat out of the their bodies and long hind legs. The bilby is so efficient at utilizing the scant moisture available to it that it does not drink water, but rather extracts the moisture it needs from its food.
The red kangaroo is the largest marsupial in the world, and it is an Australian icon. Although there are hundreds of species of kangaroo, the red kangaroo is the largest and most common, found virtually everywhere in Australia. The distinctive adaptations that kangaroos have developed in order to survive in their harsh environment are what make them such fascinating and endearing animals, from their marsupial pouches for carrying their young to their characteristic hopping, kangaroos are perhaps the most recognizable Australian animal.
The sugar glider is a small, arboreal possum known for its ability to glide from tree to tree via a thin membrane that stretches out between their legs. Sugar gliders live in the tropical and temperate forests of Australia, having adapted to a wide variety of ecosystems; they build nests that they sleep in during the daylight hours. As marsupials, sugar gliders carry their young in their pouches until the youngsters are strong enough to be left alone in the nest.
Popularly called koala bears, the koala is not related to bears at all, but is a marsupial like kangaroos or possums. The koala is one of the most recognizable animals in Australia and is considered a national mascot. Koalas live in the extreme north and south of Australia in eucalyptus forests, which are their main source of food. Koalas spend five hours a day actively eating and the rest of the time sleeping, relaxing and finding new food sources. Koalas succumb to stress very easily and for that reason they are a protected animal, despite being numerous.
