Quolls

Quolls are carnivorous marsupials in the genus Dasyurus, native to Australia and parts of New Guinea. They are medium-sized predators with a muscular build, a pointed snout, and a long tail. Fur coloration varies by species, ranging from plain brown or black to spotted or mottled patterns. Four species are commonly recognised in Australia: the northern quoll (Dasyurus halli), the eastern quoll (Dasyurus viverrinus), the western quoll (Dasyurus geoffroii), and the tiger or spotted-tailed quoll (Dasyurus maculatus). Quolls inhabit a variety of environments, including forests, woodlands, and rocky country, and use dens such as hollow logs, rock crevices, or burrows.

Quolls are primarily nocturnal and solitary. They are opportunistic carnivores, feeding on small mammals, birds, reptiles, insects, eggs, and carrion. They hunt by stalking and pouncing, and some species are adept climbers.

Reproduction and life cycle: Quolls have a marsupial reproductive strategy. Females give birth to tiny altricial young, which complete development in the pouch or attach to a teat after birth. Offspring typically leave the pouch and become independent after several weeks to months, depending on species.

Conservation: Many quoll populations have declined due to habitat loss, bushfires, and predation by introduced species such as red foxes and feral cats. The introduction of the cane toad in northern Australia has severely affected northern quolls. Conservation status varies by species and populations persist in protected areas and refuges.