Kingdom : Animalia Class : Mammalia Family : Phalangeridae Scientific Name : Phalanger Maculatus Size(L) : 15cm - 60cm (6in - 24in) Weight : 3kg - 6kg (6.5lbs - 13lbs) Top Speed : 25km/h (15mph) Life Span : 8 - 12 years Colour : Black, Brown, Tan, White, Cream, Grey Skin Type : Fur Distinctive Features : Long tail and strong toes
- The Cuscus is a large marsupial found in the forests of Northern Australia and Papua New Guinea.
- They are the largest subspecies of Possum.
- Interestingly, they were first believed to be a type of monkey by the scientists, because of the way they move.
- Their size varies from 15 cm to 60 cm in length.
- They have very long prehensile tails which help them grip and move from one tree to another.
- They have sharp claws and their body is covered with thick, wooly fur.
- Their small ears and large eyes help them lead a nocturnal life.
- They are arboreal animals spending most of their lives living and moving around on trees.
- They are omnivores feeding primarily on fruits and leaves and occasionally on small birds and reptiles.
- They are known to breed throughout the year.
- The female cuscus gives birth to 2-4 babies after a 2-week gestation.
- The babies grow in the mother’s pouch for the first 6-7 months, although only one of them typically survives that long.
- Large snakes and birds of prey are their natural predators.
- They are known to be extremely secretive and elusive animals.
- Humans are also known to hunt them for their meat and fur.
- Habitat loss due to deforestation is one of the main reasons for their declining numbers today.