1. Small to medium-sized mammals:
* Most commonly: Rabbits, kangaroos (especially joeys), wallabies, possums, rodents, and birds.
* Less commonly: Larger prey like sheep, goats, and calves, particularly in areas where these livestock are present.
2. Reptiles and Insects: Lizards, snakes, and insects are also part of their diet, especially when other prey is scarce.
3. Carrion: They are scavengers and will eat dead animals they find.
4. Fruit and Vegetation: While primarily meat-eaters, dingoes will also eat fruits and other plant matter, particularly during times of food scarcity.
5. Water: Dingoes need access to water, and will drink from rivers, lakes, and even puddles.
Their diet varies depending on factors like:
* Location: Availability of prey differs based on the environment.
* Season: Some prey is more abundant at different times of the year.
* Human influence: Competition with humans and livestock can impact their food sources.
Important Note: Dingoes are protected in Australia, and it's illegal to kill or harm them. Their role in the ecosystem is crucial for maintaining a balance in native species populations.