description Rufous rat-kangaroo Overview
The rufous rat-kangaroo, Aepyprymnus rufescens, is a terrestrial marsupial native to eastern Australia and the only living species placed in the genus Aepyprymnus. It belongs to the potoroid family, whose members are smaller relatives of kangaroos and wallabies, and has coarse reddish-brown fur and powerful hind limbs. A mostly nocturnal animal, it forages on the ground for fungi, roots, seeds, and other plant or invertebrate food.
help Rufous rat-kangaroo FAQ
What is the rufous rat-kangaroo's scientific name, and is it a true kangaroo?
It is Aepyprymnus rufescens, also called the rufous bettong. It belongs to the potoroid family Potoroidae, a group of smaller relatives of kangaroos and wallabies. [Australian Museum](https://australian.museum/learn/animals/mammals/rufous-bettong/)
Where in Australia does the rufous rat-kangaroo live?
It is native to eastern Australia, using coastal eucalypt forest, wet sclerophyll forest, and dry open woodland. The Australian Museum records it on both sides of the Great Dividing Range from about 100 to 700 metres. [Australian Museum](https://australian.museum/learn/animals/mammals/rufous-bettong/)
What does a rufous rat-kangaroo eat at night?
It usually emerges shortly after dark and feeds on herbs, roots, tubers, and fungi. Individuals may travel 2 to 4.5 kilometres while foraging. [Australian Museum](https://australian.museum/learn/animals/mammals/rufous-bettong/)
How does the rufous rat-kangaroo shelter, and what threatens it?
This solitary marsupial rests in a shallow nest with a dome of fibrous vegetation and one entrance. Red foxes, domestic cats, rabbits, and agricultural habitat loss are documented threats; the IUCN lists it as Least Concern, while New South Wales lists it as Vulnerable. [Australian Museum](https://australian.museum/learn/animals/mammals/rufous-bettong/)
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