macrotis

Macrotis is a genus of Australian marsupials in the family Thylacomyidae, commonly known as bilbies or rabbit-eared bandicoots. The genus contains two recognized species: the greater bilby, Macrotis lagotis, and the lesser bilby, Macrotis leucina; the latter is extinct. Bilbies are part of the diverse Peramelemorphia lineage that includes other Australian omnivorous marsupials.

In appearance, bilbies are small to medium-sized nocturnal marsupials with long, slender snouts, large ears, and a long tail. They typically have gray-brown fur and rely on their keen sense of smell to locate food. Their forelimbs are strong and adapted for digging, and they commonly construct and inhabit extensive burrow systems.

Habitat and distribution are centered in arid and semi-arid regions of mainland Australia, where soft soils facilitate digging. Bilbies prefer habitats with sparse vegetation and cover, and they are well adapted to hot, dry climates. They are primarily nocturnal, foraging for food across their home ranges and retreating to burrows during the day.

Ecology and diet reflect their omnivorous and fossorial lifestyle. Bilbies feed on insects, termites, seeds, bulbs, fruit, and small vertebrates. They play a role in soil aeration through their digging activity and may influence plant communities through seed dispersal.

Conservation status varies by species and region. The greater bilby remains the subject of ongoing conservation efforts due to habitat loss, predation by introduced predators such as cats and foxes, and competition with other species. The lesser bilby is extinct. In many areas, habitat restoration, predator control, and managed reintroduction programs are used to support remaining populations.