Life-History of the Eastern Pygmy-Possum, Cercartetus-Nanus (Burramyidae, Marsupialia), in South-Eastern Australia

Abstract

Populations of Cercartetus nanus were investigated in three areas of Victoria: two areas of Banksia woodland at Wilsons Promontory National Park and an area of mixed eucalypt forest with an under- storey of B. spinulosa at Nar Nar Goon North, east of Melbourne. Most births occurred between November and March, but in areas where the dominant Banksia sp. flowered in winter they took place year-round. Most females produced two litters in a year, but some produced three. Males were reproductively active throughout the year. Litter sizes ranged from two to six, with a modal size of four. Pouch life lasted 30 days and weaning occurred at 65 days. Growth was rapid, young became independent immediately after weaning, and matured as early as 4.5-5.0 months old. Maximum longevity in the field was at least 4 years.