Long-Nosed Potoroo
Conservation Status: Vulnerable
Meet the Long-Nosed Potoroo
The Long-Nosed Potoroo (Potorous tridactylus) is a small, shy, and nocturnal marsupial found in the forests and coastal heathlands of south-eastern Australia. Weighing between 0.8 - 1.5 kg, they are recognised by their long, pointed nose, large, rounded ears, and dense grey-brown fur.
Despite their size, Long-Nosed Potoroos play a huge role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. They are “ecosystem engineers” - constantly digging in search of fungi, invertebrates, roots, and seeds, which aerate the soil, spread beneficial fungal spores, and promote plant regeneration. This behaviour supports healthy vegetation growth and improves habitat quality for countless other species.
Did you know?
- A single Potoroo can turn over more than 10 tonnes of soil each year in its search for food.
- Their diet includes truffles, not the chocolate kind, but native underground fungi essential for healthy forest ecosystems.
- They are rarely seen in the wild due to their shy, secretive nature.
Why They’re at Risk
- Habitat Loss & Fragmentation: Clearing for agriculture, urban development, and logging has destroyed much of the dense vegetation these animals depend on for shelter and food. Fragmentation forces Potoroos into smaller, isolated populations, making them more vulnerable to predators and reducing genetic diversity.
- Introduced Predators: Foxes and feral cats are a constant threat, preying on both juvenile and adult Potoroos.
- Competition from Invasive Species: Introduced herbivores such as rabbits and deer compete for food resources, placing further strain on the species.
- Road Collisions: In fragmented landscapes, Potoroos risk being hit by vehicles while moving between habitat patches.
Aussie Ark’s Conservation Work
Aussie Ark is taking vital steps to protect the Long-Nosed Potoroo, a small but important species that plays a big role in keeping ecosystems healthy.
- Predator-Free Sanctuary Populations: Within secure, feral-proof sanctuaries, Aussie Ark has established an insurance population of Long-Nosed Potoroos, free from the threat of foxes and cats.
- Breeding & Genetic Management: Carefully managed breeding programs maintain genetic diversity and produce healthy individuals for release into protected wild environments.
- Reintroductions: Potoroos bred within our facilities are released into safe sanctuaries to rebuild sustainable wild populations.
- Habitat Restoration: Within our sanctuaries, we restore native vegetation, ensuring the Potoroos have an abundance of food and shelter.
Through these efforts, Aussie Ark is giving the Long-Nosed Potoroo the protection it needs to thrive and continue its role as a key engineer of Australia’s ecosystems.
How You Can Help
You can make a real difference! At Aussie Ark, we’re working tirelessly to protect Australia’s unique wildlife and restore their habitats. From Tasmanian Devils to Eastern Quolls, your support helps us care for endangered animals and preserve the beauty of our native bushland.
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Every dollar you give goes directly toward creating safe havens, providing medical care, and ensuring these amazing creatures have a future.
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Adopt
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Find out more about how we’re helping Long-Nosed Potoroos
Aussie Ark is stepping up to protect Australia’s wildlife at a time when it has never been more urgent. From building predator-proof sanctuaries and restoring vital habitats, to running world-leading breeding programs and reintroducing animals back into the wild, we are giving threatened species a fighting chance. Every action we take is about safeguarding the future of these animals and ensuring Australia’s unique wildlife can thrive for generations to come.
Get involved and support our mission
Shop, adopt, or experience the Sanctuary for yourself through one of our educational tour experiences. Get involved today, and help us work towards a better tomorrow.
