Sminthopsis

A delightful group of tiny, mouse-like marsupials found across Australia and New Guinea. At first glance, they might be mistaken for rodents, but these little creatures are actually part of the dasyurid family—the same family that includes quolls and the Tasmanian devil. What makes them fascinating is their combination of size, energy, and carnivorous habits.

One of the standout features of dunnarts is their diet. Unlike many other small mammals of their size, they are carnivores, feeding mostly on insects, spiders, small reptiles, and sometimes even other tiny mammals. Their sharp teeth and quick reflexes allow them to take down prey efficiently, making them the “little predators” of the undergrowth. This carnivorous lifestyle sets them apart from rodents, who typically eat seeds and plants, and shows how unique Australia’s marsupial lineup really is.

Another fascinating trait is their flexible survival strategy. Dunnarts live in some of the harshest environments in Australia, including deserts, grasslands, and scrublands. To survive in these unpredictable climates, they can enter a state called torpor, where their body temperature and metabolism drop dramatically. This helps them conserve energy during cold nights or when food is scarce, essentially letting them “pause” their activity until conditions improve. It’s a handy trick that allows them to thrive in environments where other small mammals might struggle.

There are around 19 recognized species, each with its own range and habitat preferences, from the fat-tailed dunnart, which stores fat in its tail like a mini camel hump, to the stripe-faced dunnart, which has a bold mask-like marking on its face. Some species are so tiny they can fit in the palm of your hand, yet they remain fierce little insect-hunters.