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the name suggests, these mouse-size marsupials are small
possums. They live in heathlands and woodlands where there
are plenty of insects and nectar-producing flowers (such as
Banksias) for them to feed on. They are excellent, acrobatic
climbers with strong hands and feet and a prehensile tail (one
which can be used to grip).
The Western Pygmy-possum lives
principally in drier areas where the days are hot and the nights
are frequently very cold (especially in winter). To deal
with the cold the little animals often curl up into tight balls,
lower their body temperature and go into a state rather like a
short hibernation (this process is called torpor). This
saves energy in times when food supplies and temperatures are both
low.
The females will give birth to up
to 12 young which they carry in
the pouch for about a month, after which they are left in a nest
until they are weaned.
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