A small, carnivorous marsupial native to Australia, once found across much of the mainland but now surviving only in the wild on the island of Tasmania. About the size of a domestic cat, the eastern quoll is known for its graceful, fox-like appearance, with a pointed snout, sharp teeth, and a soft, bushy tail. Its fur is one of its most distinctive features — either black or fawn in color, always speckled with bright white spots across its back and sides. These spots aren’t just for show; they help the animal blend into the shadows of grasslands and forests.

Eastern quolls are nocturnal hunters, meaning they’re most active at night. They have excellent hearing and a keen sense of smell, which they use to track down prey. Their diet is varied and includes insects, birds, small mammals, reptiles, and even some fruit. They are also known to scavenge, feeding on carrion when fresh food is scarce. Although they are carnivores, their hunting style is quick and efficient rather than aggressive. During the day, they rest in hidden dens, often made in hollow logs, rocky crevices, or burrows.

Unlike many marsupials, eastern quolls are solitary animals, and they come together only to breed. Mating occurs in late autumn or early winter, and after a short pregnancy, the female gives birth to up to 30 tiny joeys, though only six can survive, as she only has six teats. The joeys live in their mother’s pouch for several weeks, then ride on her back or stay in the den while she hunts. By the time they are around five months old, they become more independent. Despite their small size and cuteness, quolls are fierce little survivors.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Australia

Official estimate

EX

Extinct locally: NSW, Victoria

Australia

<10,000

EN

2014

Tasmania