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Wombats, undoubtedly, are unique representatives of the animal world. After all, they existed on our planet many millions of years ago. Many species of this animal have died out, but we still have the opportunity to see them.
Today there are 2 genera that belong to the wombat family. They, in turn, include 3 species. There is a short-haired wombat, as well as a genus of long-haired wombats, which include a long-haired, as well as a Queensland wombat. Previously, there were many more species on our planet, but in the process of evolution, most of them disappeared. A variety of reasons contributed to this. It is known that there were at least 5 genera. Previously, pandas were considered relatives of these animals, since they have a lot in common.
But about 36 million years ago, these animals began to develop along different paths of evolution. As a result, they moved away, and acquired their characteristic features. If you look at the photos of wombats and pandas, you can still trace a certain similarity.
Description
Wombats are herbivores. They live in Australia. Externally, representatives of this species are similar to small bears, and a little like guinea pigs. The body length of adults is approximately 70 - 120 cm, weight ranges from 20 to 40 kg.
A feature of representatives of this species is that the back of the body has an unusual structure compared to other mammals. On the back, they have a lot of cartilage, the skin is hardened, there are bones. All this is a shield. The animal uses it to protect its home. For example, if someone wants to climb into the hole to the wombat, the animal simply turns back to the entrance. So he blocks the passage into the hole, and then can crush the enemy against its walls.
Wombat head deserves special attention. Compared to the size of the body, it is large. The shape of the head is somewhat flattened. If the wombat is in danger, he can defend himself with his head or even use it to attack the enemy. At the same time, he makes movements similar to butting, although this animal does not have horns.
The jaw and teeth in their structure have many similarities with the jaws of rodents. Compared to other marsupials, wombats have fewer teeth. Top and bottom they have 2 cutting tools. In addition, there are chewing teeth. But the side ones are missing.
These animals have very powerful strong legs. On each of 5 fingers, on each of which there are claws necessary for animals to perform various actions. It is with the help of these claws that wombats dig their holes perfectly.
These animals are famous for their ability to dig an entire kingdom underground. Many researchers believe that wombats are the most capable and largest diggers among all animals. One individual can dig a real tunnel, the length of which will be about 20 m, and their burrows will reach 3 m wide. Wombats equip real underground castles in which they live with their family. Their paws are small in length. But this does not prevent the animals from developing speeds of up to 40 km / h. If necessary, they can easily climb a tree or swim in a pond.
Lifestyle
Australia is home to these unusual animals, but you can also meet them on the island of Tasmania.
In nature, there are many representatives of this species.But you can see this animal infrequently. This is due to the fact that representatives of this species spend a lot of time underground. They live in areas where the soil is dry, not stony, groundwater is absent. Also, various roots of trees and vegetation interfere with them. They choose the soil in which it is easiest to dig a large, spacious tunnel.
Of these minks that animals dig for their families, whole villages form under the ground. They consist of spacious dwellings, as well as small streets through which animals easily move in their usual environment. Most of the time they are in their underground houses. Here they sleep in the daytime, and at night they come to the surface in search of food.
Representatives of this species live in groups consisting of a large number of individuals. Such groups occupy a large territory. Often this can be a large field, the area of which reaches 20-25 hectares.
Members of the group mark the territory with excrement, which in their shape resembles a cube. In this way they determine the boundaries of possessions.
These animals are quite peaceful in nature. They are not afraid of man. In nature, they have no enemies. But, if someone encroaches on their territory, they will aggressively defend it. If they feel that danger is approaching, they immediately shake their big heads, make sounds that resemble a lowing.
The enemy often makes the decision that it is better not to fight with such an aggressive enemy, and leaves. But, if the opponent does not retreat, a battle may begin between animals. Wombats are fighting with their heads, as if butting the enemy. In general, representatives of this species lead a peaceful lifestyle, if they are not in danger.
Food
These animals are considered true gourmets who eat only high-quality plants. They get food using their claws. Their favorite treat is juicy shoots, roots. They also love moss, berries and some types of mushrooms. With the help of their teeth, lips and sensitive sense of smell, these unique animals choose only the best food for themselves. They prefer the youngest not stiff shoots, cut them to the very root, and enjoy the excellent taste.
Breeding
Wombat breeding occurs at any time of the year, but in arid areas it may depend on the weather. They are marsupial animals, but at the same time their bags are located not in front, but in the back. Thanks to this, the female is convenient to dig the earth, and dirt does not get into the bag.
Their pregnancy is very short - about 20 days. Only one cub is born. A female has two nipples on her body, but she cannot bear two babies at the same time. The little wombat is in the mother’s bag for about 8 months. She constantly cares about him. After that, he leaves the bag, but the mother surrounds the cub with care for about a year. These animals usually live in the wild for about 15 years. When kept in captivity - up to 20-25 years. It depends on food and conditions.
Video: Wombat (Vombatidae)
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