Monito del monte
The Monito del monte (Dromiciops gliroides) is a small marsupial native to the forests of Chile and Argentina. It is a tiny and elusive animal, with a body length of only about 5 inches.
The Monito del monte is a nocturnal and arboreal species, spending its life high in the trees. It is the only living representative of an ancient lineage of marsupials. It is a crucial part of the ecosystem, as it is the primary disperser of the seeds of certain trees.
The Monito del monte is a vulnerable species, facing threats from habitat loss and climate change.
Monito del monte
Classification
Mammalia > Microbiotheria > Microbiotheriidae > Dromiciops > D. gliroides
Native To
Conservation Status
Average Height
3 - 5 inches
(8 - 13 cm)
Average Weight
1 - 2 oz
(28 - 57 g)
Average Life Span
4 - 5 years
Gestation Period
20 - 25 days
Did You Know?
The Monito del monte is a small marsupial native to the temperate forests of southwestern South America.
It is sometimes called a "living fossil" because it is the only surviving member of an ancient lineage of marsupials.
The Monito del monte plays an important role in its ecosystem by dispersing seeds of various plants, especially mistletoe.
They are nocturnal animals and spend most of their lives in trees, using their long, prehensile tails for balance.
During colder months, the Monito del monte can enter a state of torpor, similar to hibernation, to conserve energy.
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