Found across northern Australia, from the Pilbara in Western Australia through the Northern Territory and into parts of Queensland, this spotted marsupial is instantly recognizable by its chocolate-brown coat dotted with bright white spots, a long tail, and a pointed snout. About the size of a small cat, the Northern quoll is an agile climber and quick runner, splitting its time between the ground and trees in search of food. It is one of the few marsupials that has adapted to live in rocky areas, woodlands, and even near human settlements, making it one of the more versatile small predators in Australia.

Unlike many other marsupials that stick to plants or insects, quolls are true carnivores, feasting on insects, birds, reptiles, frogs, and even small mammals. They also scavenge on carrion, making them an important cleanup crew in the ecosystem. Their sharp teeth and strong jaws let them handle surprisingly tough prey for their size. At night, they become lively hunters, darting through the undergrowth or climbing trees with the agility of a squirrel. Their combination of speed, climbing ability, and a fearless attitude makes them effective hunters, but also makes them stand out from other marsupials that are usually more specialized.

Another striking trait of the Northern quoll is its dramatic life cycle. Males live short, intense lives—they mate frantically during the breeding season, often fighting with rivals, and then die soon after from stress and exhaustion, never seeing their young. This strategy, called semelparity, is unusual in mammals and more often seen in certain fish or insects. Females, on the other hand, survive to raise their young, carrying up to eight tiny joeys in their pouch before transferring them to a den. It’s a high-risk, high-reward system that ensures each new generation is born into the harsh landscapes of northern Australia.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Australia

EN

2015