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Ozark - the Australian Wildlife Carer's Information & Communications Network

Fri - Sep 03
2010

Ozark - the Australian Wildlife Carer's Information & Communications Network

FOR IDENTIFICATION

By Uta Wicke



I've just received this pinkie into care and I wonder what it is. The total length (nose to tip of the tail) is 8 cm and he (I think it's a male) weighs 5.6 grams. He was found in Augusta, the southern tip of WA. All I know is that this is not a possum. Can anyone help?
Thanks
Uta Wicke



small baby mammal for identification small baby mammal for identification
small baby mammal for identification Brushtailed Phascogale - now 6.2gm
Postscript

Hi Ozarkians

On August 27 I asked for help with a tiny unidentified pinkie and it seemed to be a very ordinary rat - however, that was not the case. Thanks to Peter Vickeridge who saw the pics on Ozark, Phasco has been positively identified as a Brushtailed Phascogale (Phascogale tapoatafa).

Very exciting for me as I'm completely out of my depth here - I'm a 'possums only' carer. I've attached the latest photo - now 6.2 grams heavy and there is a quite distinct black stripe on his face. For the long brush at the end of his tail we'll have to wait a few more weeks (or months?).

To show those who aren't familiar with phascogale I've also attached a photo of the only other animal of that species I ever received into care - an adult male who unfortunately had a fractured leg. Thanks to all those who tried to help.
Kind regards
Uta

adult Brushtailed Phascogale
 











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