Northern Brush-tailed Phascogale
Phascogale pirata
Australia's Threatened Species Category
Vulnerable
Listed since: 13/07/2010
IUCN's Threatened Species Category
Vulnerable
Listed since: 15/06/2015
Population trend: Unknown
Other names: None
Priority Species? No
The Australian government's Threatened Species Action Plan 2022-2032 selected over 100 priority species derive from consultation with threatened species experts and the wider community. While all species are important, focusing on a limited number of species can help target effort and resources so that outcomes can be achieved, measured and shared.
Description
The Northern Brush-tailed Phascogale is a nocturnal, carnivorous marsupial with a distinguishable long, black tail that forms a bottlebrush shape when alarmed. The Northern Brush-tailed Phascogale is restricted to eucalypt forests in the top end of the Northern Territory. The feed in trees and on the ground and shelter in tree hollows during the day.
Threats
Threats to the Northern Brush-tailed Phascogale are changed fire regimes which lead to reduction in forest structure and availability of suitable tree hollows. The expected increase in severe cyclones with climate change could be detrimental to this species through reduction in forest structure. Predation by feral cats and poisoning from cane toads is also a real threat to this species.
Useful links for more detailed information on this species
DCCEEW - Australian Government Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water
SPRAT - DCCEEW Species Profile and Threats Database