Swamp Antechinus (Antechinus minimus)
Who am I?
I'm a small marsupial, about the size of a mouse. I live in the lush wetlands and riparian areas of Australia. I've got a sleek brown fur coat that helps me blend into my surroundings. I spend my days foraging for insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates among the dense vegetation.
Where can you find me?
You can find me in swampy areas such as wetlands and riparian areas along the coast or the fringes of woodlands and forests. I’m very shy and unlikely to be spotted in the open, as I’m usually hiding amongst the dense understorey or among rocks, logs or anything that can cover me. I’m most commonly seen after I’ve passed away after a busy breeding season! I’ve been found along the coast in places like Coronet Bay, Kilcunda and Cape Paterson.
Why am I threatened?
We love hanging out in wetlands and riparian areas, but humans keep changing these places. They're clearing the land for farms, building cities, and messing with the natural flow of water. Pollution from agriculture, industry, and urban runoff can poison our water and soil, making it harder for us to find clean food and avoid getting sick. Feral cats and foxes also threaten our persistence through predation.
How can you help?
Refrain from clearing and cutting ferns, grasses, shrubs and other understorey from beneath treed areas. Protect local remnant habitat and coastal areas from development, clearing and human disturbance. Plant more grasses and understorey species to provide safe passage, free from predators.
Get involved now!
If you have seen a Swamp Antechinus, please report the sighting HERE
If you know of a suitable property for wetland and swamp protection or enhancement, please report it HERE
If you want to join our Landcare group and get involved with on-ground works such as planting, weeding and educational activities, sign up HERE
Thank you for contributing to protecting a local threatened species!