Size and Weight:
- Woylies are relatively small marsupials.
- They typically measure around 30 to 40 centimeters (12-16 inches) in length, excluding their tails.
- Their weight ranges from approximately 1 to 2.5 kilograms (2.2-5.5 pounds).
Body and Fur:
- Woylies have a compact, stocky body.
- Their fur is soft and dense, providing insulation against temperature variations.
- The coloration of their fur can vary, but it is generally pale gray or brown with a reddish-brown tinge on the back and sides.
- Their bellies are usually lighter in color, often white or cream.
Head and Facial Features:
- Woylies have small, rounded heads with blunt snouts.
- Their eyes are relatively large and dark, helping them navigate their nocturnal environments.
- They possess long whiskers, which are sensitive and aid in their sense of touch and foraging abilities.
- Their ears are also long and erect, allowing for excellent hearing to detect potential predators or prey.
Tail:
- Woylies have a long and bushy tail, approximately the same length as their body.
- The tail is thick at the base and tapers towards the tip.
- It is prehensile, meaning they can use it to grip and grasp objects and branches while climbing.
Distinctive Features:
- One distinguishing feature of woylies is the brush of longer hairs on the soles of their feet, which provide extra grip during tree climbing.
- They also have prominent claws on their feet, enabling them to grasp tree bark and navigate arboreal environments.
Overall, woylies have an endearing and small appearance, blending seamlessly into their native habitats, such as eucalypt forests and woodlands, where they seek refuge, forage for food, and build their nests. These unique marsupials play an important role in maintaining the ecological balance of their environments in Western Australia.