Common Dunnart

The common dunnart (Sminthopsis murina) is a small carnivorous marsupial which is mouse-grey above whilst mostly whitish-grey below.

They have large rounded ears and eyes and have a thin tail.

Status and threats

They are listed as 'Vulnerable' in Victoria as population numbers have dropped significantly in the past 20-30 years. However, little is known about the abundance and population dynamics of this species. The declining population is likely due to clearing and a reduction in habitat, predation by foxes and cats and inappropriate fire regimes.

Where they like to live

Common dunnarts prefer dry forests predominately with an open mid storey and ground layer dominated by tussock grasses. In Nillumbik the common dunnart prefers to inhabit dry bushland dominated by red stringy bark and long-leaf box with red-anther wallaby grass as the ground layer. The presence of logs and rock are very important as they provide habitat for this species. They feed on a wide range of insects, including beetles, roaches, cricket larvae and spiders.

Where you can find them in Nillumbik

Populations of common dunnart are scattered throughout drier parts of the state. Previously in Nillumbik from 1980s to 1990s, the species had been recorded at multiple sites including Cottles Bridge, Christmas Hills, St Helena, Kangaroo Ground and Yarrambat. However, recently the common dunnart has only been recently recorded in Christmas Hills. Parks Victoria has coordinated a management program for the species found at Christmas Hills since 2005.

How to help protect them 

• Report sightings! Help contribute to monitoring data to help conservation efforts.
• Engage in fox control.
• Comply with the 24-hour cat curfew and keep your cat indoors.
• Report on foxes and cats on Council land using Feral Scan.
• Use non-lethal mice traps to avoid trapping native rodents.
• Revegetate your propertywith locally indigenous species. Small shrubs and tussock grass are great habitat.
• Retain fallen logs and woody debris to provide habitat.
• Install dunnart tiles(PDF, 2MB) as artificial habitat.
• Participate in Nillumbik’s Gardens for Wildlife to learn about wildlife friendly gardening.
• Join a Friends group or a Landcare group.