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ABC News
3 days ago
- Science
- ABC News
Marsupials are underrated Australian survivors. It's time to get to know them better
A small golden animal with shovel-like claws swims through the red sand of Australia's central desert in pursuit of its supper. Over millions of years, it's lost its eyes, but it is still a fierce hunter. Even though it has no external ears, it can sense the smallest of movements. The Anangu people call it "itjaritjari". When Western scientists first stumbled across the cryptic animal in the 19th century, they dubbed it the "marsupial mole" because it bore a striking resemblance to the "true moles" they knew. Some even debated whether it was a missing link between mammals and marsupials. Then they discovered it had a pouch. At the time Notorctes typhlops was described, scientists such as John Gould regarded marsupials as primitive animals. Just a few years earlier, in 1863, he wrote: "This is a very low form of animal life, indeed the lowest among the Mammalia." The subject of his disdain? The majestic kangaroo — and, by extension, all Australasian marsupials. Marsupials had been respected and understood by Indigenous Australians for tens of thousands of years when Gould penned those words. Today, many marsupials have become Aussie icons — think kangaroos, koalas and wombats — and have arguably gained more attention than other Australian mammals such as rodents and bats. Yet our knowledge of this amazing group as a whole — even the popular animals — is still "inadequate", Tim Flannery argues. Professor Flannery is famous for his work as a climate advocate and director of the Australian Museum, but marsupials have been his passion since the 1980s. "If you want to know what it really means to be Australian, it pays to give the marsupials a little bit of time," he says. Today, two-thirds of the world's 300-plus marsupial species are found in Australia. Their story on this continent starts at least 55 million years ago. The earliest marsupials were probably like today's bandicoots, small omnivorous creatures that can breed at a rate of knots when conditions are correct, Professor Flannery suggests. Fossils from the Murgon fossil site in Queensland back him up, revealing ancient bandicoots and tiny climbing creatures that might have looked like today's phascogales. Their ancestors travelled here across the supercontinent of Gondwana, from what is currently South America through ancient Antarctica until they reached a land bridge that is now Tasmania. "Australia was still very much a polar environment. Everywhere south of northern New South Wales was all within the Antarctic circle," Professor Flannery explains. These early marsupials shared their damp polar world with the world's first songbirds and the egg-laying monotremes, which would evolve into today's platypus and echidna. The "scarce" fossil record also shows bats as well as hints that a few non-marsupial mammals were present on the continent at the same time. But marsupials may have had an evolutionary advantage over mammals. Marsupials have it easy in the birthing department compared to placental mammals like us. They have a super pared-back placenta — so don't nourish their young in their uterus for long. They birth underdeveloped joeys (sometimes the size of a grain of rice) and grow them up externally, usually in a pouch. When colonial scientists like Gould encountered marsupial reproduction, it was cast as an "intermediate" step between egg-laying monotremes and "high" placental mammals. In other words, it was thought that mammals evolved from marsupial-like creatures. And only monotremes — platypus and echidna — were considered lowlier. This idea was flipped upside-down like a ring-tailed possum on a wire by Heather White in 2023. Dr White, who is a researcher at London's Natural History Museum, studied ancient skulls, and showed that marsupials evolved from early placental mammals. This means marsupials are hyper-specialised placental mammals after all. Sorry Gould. And their pouch may have been the secret to their evolutionary success, Professor Flannery suggests. Dunnart females are ready to breed at three months old, and have 14-day pregnancies of up to 10 young at once — often from multiple fathers. When times are hard, they can hit "pause" on their pregnancies. This "eruptive and rapid" breeding may have given marsupials the edge they needed to cross the ancient polar land bridge from South America to Australia when placental mammals did not. And sure, there are no marsupials that have flippers like whales or that can fly like bats. But we should celebrate them for what they can do, says kangaroo fan Vera Weisbecker, who runs the bones and biodiversity lab at Flinders University. "Kangaroos are the biggest animal to ever hop, ever. This is biomechanically next to impossible at such large sizes," Dr Weisbeker says. As the continent changed over time, many species adapted to new challenges and habitats. The ancestors of today's itjaritjari, and its northern cousin the kakarratul (Notoryctes caurinus) as it is known by Ngaanyatjarra communities, appear in the fossil record about 20 million years ago. These early marsupial moles transformed adaptations used for foraging in soft rainforest to survive in the desert as the continent dried out. They weren't the only animals to adapt to arid conditions. Tiny carnivorous desert-dwelling mulgara (Dasycercus sp) produce super-concentrated urine and seemingly get all their moisture from their prey's flesh. The mainly herbivorous mala (Lagorchestes hirsutus) takes this feat one step further. It can survive in the desert without water or juicy insects, getting all its moisture from plants. Australia's climate is tough, but Professor Flannery says the real challenge of this continent is the soils. "The surface layer of the rocks has been leached of all of its nutrients a long time ago, with a few exceptions," he says. As a result, Professor Flannery believes the capacity of marsupials to survive on "miserable and meagre food" is underrated. "The good old euro can eat spinifex and survive which is bloody miraculous from a metabolic point of view," he says. Not all marsupials live in the arid zone. The cuscus (Spilocuscus maulatus), which is Professor Flannery's favourite underrated marsupial, along with the striped possum (Dactylopsila trivirgata) and tree kangaroos can still be found in pockets of dense rainforests in northern Australia. Yet despite their tenacity over the past 55 million years, many marsupials are now threatened with extinction. There are now around 159 marsupial species in Australia — and an estimated 40 per cent of them are threatened. Since colonisation, 17 Australian marsupial species have disappeared. This is an extinction rate of nearly 10 per cent — well above the global mammal extinction rate of 1.4 per cent over the same period. Marsupial moles — the itjaritjari and kakarratul — are rarely seen. Little is known about their range and distribution. The karkarratul is considered stable, but the itjaritjari is listed as endangered. Both species face predation by introduced species such as foxes and cats, and changes to their habitat. Despite being evolutionary wonders, the idea that marsupials are "inferior" to placental mammals still remains today, Professor Flannery says. Helping turn that notion on its head is Greg Irons, manager of the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary in Tasmania. As a wildlife rescuer, he hears concern about the charismatic cuties such as Tasmanian devils in his home state or bilbies, koalas and numbats on the mainland. But Mr Irons worries that less famous marsupials blur into "just another hopping thing", when they each have a unique (and underrated) role in the ecosystem. On mainland Australia, little diggers like bandicoots and bilbies and boodies eat seeds, travel and then disperse those seeds when they come out their back end. They pockmark arid environments with holes, increasing water penetration after rain and improving conditions for the young plants they help transport. In Tasmania, bettongs use their pointed snout to root out fungus from the forest floor, scattering spores and spreading fungi that keep forests healthy. "We've got kids at school that can all tell you what a lion, a tiger, and probably 40 different species of dinosaur are, but they cannot tell you what a bettong is," Mr Irons says. "Yet this animal could be responsible for the entire communication and health of the forest that allow us to breathe." Thanks also to Dr Jack Ashby, assistant director of the University Museum of Zoology, Cambridge for his input.
Belfast Telegraph
15-06-2025
- Belfast Telegraph
A World of Wonders: Epic Bucket List Experiences for 2026
Whether you're planning to explore Europe or go long-haul, there's so much out there waiting to be discovered. With 2026 fast approaching, now is the perfect time to start planning. Whether you're drawn to ancient architecture, remote wilderness, or vibrant coastlines, here's some inspiration for your travels and why they're worth adding to your bucket list. Encounter Wildlife in the Galápagos - Nature Like Nowhere Else Located 1,000 km off Ecuador's coast, these remote islands are famous for their unique wildlife, including giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, and marine iguanas, all thriving in a protected and largely untouched ecosystem. Why add to your travel list: It's one of the few places where you can observe wildlife up close in a truly pristine natural setting. The Galapagos Islands, which inspired Darwin's theory of evolution, are a dream destination for nature lovers and science enthusiasts alike. Explore Cinque Terre – Italy's Colourful Coastal Villages Cinque Terre is five colourful fishing villages on Italy's Ligurian coast. Dating back to the Middle Ages, these once-isolated communities relied on fishing and hillside vineyards, preserving their traditional charm over the centuries. Why add to your travel list: It's one of the top sights in Italy, and it's impossible to fully capture through photos alone. The views from a train or boat trip around the area are truly amazing, offering unique perspectives of this stunning coastline. Feel the Power of Iguazu Falls – Nature's Roaring Wonder Stretching across the border of Argentina and Brazil, Iguazu Falls consists of nearly 300 waterfalls surrounded by lush rainforest. The sheer volume of water and the diverse wildlife make it one of the most impressive natural sights in the world. Why add to your travel list: Experiencing Iguazu Falls from both sides of Brazil and Argentina reveals two very different yet equally breathtaking perspectives. Being there means immersing yourself in the thunderous roar, misty spray, and vast scale of the falls. It's an experience that leaves a lasting impression, bringing you face-to-face with nature's raw power. Wander Through The Acropolis – Greece's Ancient Marvel The Acropolis sits above Athens as a lasting symbol of ancient Greece, the birthplace of democracy, philosophy, and classical architecture. This remarkable site is home to several iconic structures, including the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike. Why add to your travel list: Visiting the Acropolis, along with other ancient sites in Greece, offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the foundations of Western civilisation firsthand. Experience Uluru – The Spiritual Heart of the Outback Uluru rises dramatically from the red centre of Australia, a sandstone monolith sacred to the Anangu people. It holds deep cultural significance through the stories connected to the land. Why add to your travel list: Its vivid colours at sunrise are a sight you'll never forget and visiting offers insight into Indigenous heritage and the landscape's cultural importance in Australia. Visit Mount Teide - Spain's Volcanic Marvel Mount Teide is the highest peak in Spain, set within a vast volcanic national park. Its otherworldly terrain and dramatic landscapes create a truly unique experience. Why add to your travel list: It's a chance to explore a landscape in Spain that feels almost otherworldly, with vast lava fields, jagged rock formations and sweeping vistas that stretch into the horizon. Admire the Taj Mahal – The Eternal Symbol of Love Built in 1632 by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is a masterpiece of architecture known for its intricate inlay work, perfect symmetry, and impressive scale. Why add to your travel list: Seeing the Taj Mahal in person gives you a real sense of the history, scale, and precision behind one of the most iconic landmarks in India. Discover Mont Saint-Michel – The Tidal Island Spectacle Mont Saint-Michel is a medieval abbey perched on a rocky island off Normandy's coast. The tides surrounding it create a dramatic landscape, and its cobbled streets feel frozen in time. Why add to your travel list: Experiencing Mont Saint-Michel's historic architecture and timeless atmosphere in person is profoundly captivating. Its unique location and rich history make it one of the most alluring heritage sites in France. Uncover The Rockies, Canada – Stunning Mountainscapes Stretching across Alberta and British Columbia, the Canadian Rockies feature a diverse range of landscapes, including rugged peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, and dense forests, making it a favourite destination for nature enthusiasts. Why add to your travel list: The breathtaking natural beauty and vast wilderness of the Rockies in Canada are sights you truly must see to believe. Notable highlights include Banff, Lake Louise and the scenic Icefields Parkway. From ancient marvels to natural wonders, there's so much to explore in 2026; the hardest part will be deciding what to tick off your list first! Belfast Telegraph Travel in association Travel Department have been providing guided holidays for all over the world for over 28 years and counting. With 100s of destinations to choose from, holidays include flights, accommodation, transfers, guided tours and much more.
Time Out
02-06-2025
- Time Out
Virgin Australia is slinging $99 flights from Melbourne to Uluru
Have you always dreamed of seeing Uluru up close? Maybe you've been saving up to experience the magical Sounds of Silence dinner under the starry night sky. Perhaps you want to explore further at Kings Canyon and Kata Tju t a... Well, if visiting Australia's spectacular Red Centre has long been on your travel bucket list, this one's for you. Virgin Australia has just dropped $99 flights from Melbourne to Uluru as part of an exclusive 72-hour sale. And yes, you read that right: $99! It really doesn't get much cheaper than that. This incredibly rare deal is part of Virgin Australia's Uluru Sale, running from Monday, June 2 to Wednesday, June 4 at 11.59pm (or until sold out). The best part? You won't have to wait long to take off, with travel dates available between July 2025 and March 2026. Melbourne (and Brisbane) really have scored the best deal, with one-way economy fares to Uluru from just $99 – valid in both directions. Travellers from Sydney, Adelaide, Hobart and the Gold Coast can snap up one-way fares from $199, with a scenic stopover in Brissy or Melbourne. Located on the ancestral lands of the Anangu people, Uluru is one of the most powerful places to connect with Aboriginal culture. Highlights include the breathtaking Wintjiri Wiru drone show, the captivating Sunrise Journeys light and art experience, and Indigenous-led experiences covering astronomy, ancient rock art and bush tucker. It's definitely a place you want to visit at least once in your life. You can find out more about Virgin Australia's 72-Hour Uluru Sale here. But hurry, we don't think those tickets will last long.
Time Out
02-06-2025
- Time Out
Red-hot deal alert: Virgin Australia has just dropped $99 flights to Uluru
You can do a lot with $99 these days. It'll get you around 25 sausage rolls from the servo, 11 floppy sun hats from the chemist, entry to three overly niche museums, or one night in a very questionable motel. But here's a far better idea: you could spend it on flights to Australia's Red Centre, which we'd say is a priceless experience in itself. This incredibly rare deal is part of Virgin Australia's 72-Hour Uluru Sale, running from Monday, June 2 to Wednesday, June 4 at 11.59pm (or until sold out). The best part? You won't have to wait long to take off, with travel dates available between July 2025 and March 2026. Brisbane and Melbourne flyers score the best deal, with one-way economy fares to Uluru from just $99 – valid in both directions. Travellers from Sydney, Adelaide, Hobart and the Gold Coast can snap up one-way fares from $199, with a scenic stopover in Brissy or Melbourne. Meanwhile, those coming from Cairns can fly from $209 and travellers from Perth can snag fares starting at $349. From witnessing the world's best sunrise to dining beneath a starry desert night sky, Uluru is full of bucket-list experiences. On the ancestral lands of the Anangu people, it's also one of the most powerful places to connect with Aboriginal culture. Highlights include the breathtaking Wintjiri Wiru drone show, the captivating Sunrise Journeys light and art experience, and Indigenous-led experiences covering astronomy, ancient rock art and bush tucker.
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Travel + Leisure
20-05-2025
- Travel + Leisure
You Can Now Spend the Night in One of Australia's Most Famous National Parks for the First Time Ever—What to Know
Formed over 500 million years ago, Uluru and its neighbor Kata Tjuta are some of Australia's most famous natural landmarks. Now, for the first time ever, visitors can book an overnight stay inside this UNESCO World Heritage site. The Tasmanian Walking Company recently launched a five-day, fully guided trek through Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. The journey will begin in the shadows of Kata Tjuta's giant dome formations before continuing along desert trails to Uluru. Groups are limited to just 16 people for each all-inclusive trip through the desert, and guests will get to experience luxe, eco-friendly lodges, wellness therapies, and some of the world's best stargazing. This year marks the 40th anniversary of 'Handback,' when the Anangu people were given back the title deeds to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park in 1985. That's why it was essential to the Tasmanian Walking Company that it develop the itinerary in consultation with the Anangu people, who are considered the traditional owners of the land. During the five-day journey, Anangu guides will share ancestral stories and folklore. 'My people have lived on this land for more than 30,000 years, and we welcome visitors from all over the world,' says Tapaya Edwards, chair of the Anangu Steering Committee. 'By walking in our footsteps and on our trails, they will also come to see that our ancient culture is still very much alive today.' In addition to the stunning natural beauty of Central Australia, visitors here can also experience the oldest living culture in the world. It is here where Wintjiri Wiru, the world's largest permanent drone installation, uses the desert as a canvas to tell stories that have been passed down for generations. Visitors can also participate in award-winning dining experiences that celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander foods and pair them with modern Australian wines. Dates for the Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Signature Walk begin in April 2026—dates are already selling out, so interested travelers are advised to book as soon as possible.
