Where do marsupial mice live? - briefly
«Marsupial mice» occupy a range of habitats across Australia and parts of New Guinea, from wet forests and rain‑forests to arid shrublands and alpine regions. Their distribution includes eastern and southern mainland states, Tasmania, and several offshore islands.
Where do marsupial mice live? - in detail
Marsupial mice, also known as planigale or mouse‑like marsupials, inhabit a range of environments across Australia and New Guinea. Their distribution is closely linked to climate, vegetation type, and soil composition.
In Australia, populations are found primarily in:
- Arid and semi‑arid regions of the interior, where sparse shrubs and spinifex provide cover.
- Tropical savanna zones of the north, especially along riverine corridors with dense grass and leaf litter.
- Montane forest patches in the eastern highlands, where cooler temperatures and abundant understory support foraging.
In New Guinea, the species occupies:
- Lowland rainforests, thriving in the moist leaf litter and fallen logs.
- Montane forests up to 2,500 m elevation, where cooler, humid conditions prevail.
Microhabitat preferences include:
- Ground‑level burrows or crevices beneath rocks and fallen timber.
- Dense grass tussocks offering protection from predators.
- Areas with high insect abundance, which constitute the primary food source.
Seasonal movements are limited; individuals generally remain within a defined home range, adjusting activity patterns to temperature fluctuations rather than undertaking long‑distance migrations. Conservation status varies locally, with some populations restricted to fragmented habitats due to agricultural expansion and mining activities.