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SOUTHERN HAIRY-NOSED WOMBAT

Species: Lasiorhinus latifrons

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DESCRIPTION

The Southern Hairy-Nosed Wombat (Lasiorhinus latifrons) is a burrowing marsupial found in the arid and semi-arid regions of southern Australia, particularly in South Australia, Victoria, and parts of New South Wales.  This wombat species is slightly smaller than the common wombat, weighing between 18 to 29 kilograms and measuring up to 1 metre length. It is recognized by its thick, gray to light brown fur and distinctive hairy nose, which helps it navigate through dusty environments.

 

DIET

The Southern Hairy-Nosed Wombat is a herbivore, primarily feeding on a variety of grasses, roots, and herbaceous plants. They are well adapted to the arid regions they inhabit, where food can be sparse. Wombats have a slow metabolism, which allows them to efficiently process the tough, fibrous plants they consume. They also tend to forage at night, which helps them avoid the heat of the day. Their strong, sharp teeth are perfect for cutting through the tough vegetation they rely on for nutrition.

 

ENDANGERMENT STATUS

Currently listed as Near Threatened, this wombat species faces several threats, including habitat loss, competition for food with livestock, and climate change, which affects their food sources and burrowing conditions. However, they are found in several protected areas, and conservation efforts are underway to preserve their habitats and support sustainable populations. Their ability to adapt to harsh, arid environments helps them survive in Australia’s challenging landscapes.

 

FIND OUT MORE
OUR ANIMAL FAMILY
ANIMAL FACTS

SOUTHERN HAIRY-NOSED WOMBAT

GROUP NAME

Whisker

Native To

SIZE

Up to 1 metre

BABY NAME

Joey

Habitat

The Southern Hairy-Nosed Wombat is native to the arid and semi-arid regions of southern Australia, particularly in South Australia, Victoria, and parts of New South Wales. They inhabit scrublands, grasslands, and woodlands, where they dig extensive underground burrows to stay cool during the hot days and protect themselves from predators. These burrows, sometimes up to 30 meters long, are essential for their survival in the harsh, dry climates of their native environment.

Did You Know?

They are master burrowers! These wombats can dig elaborate burrow systems that can extend up to 30 metres long—talk about a mammoth home! Their burrows provide shelter from the extreme heat during the day and protect them from predators. It’s not just their burrows that are impressive; the wombats can also dig at astonishing speeds, creating underground labyrinths that serve as their personal underground oasis!


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They are master burrowers! These wombats can dig elaborate burrow systems that can extend up to 30 metres long—talk about a mammoth home! Their burrows provide shelter from the extreme heat during the day and protect them from predators. It’s not just their burrows that are impressive; the wombats can also dig at astonishing speeds, creating underground labyrinths that serve as their personal underground oasis!

They are master burrowers! These wombats can dig elaborate burrow systems that can extend up to 30 metres long—talk about a mammoth home! Their burrows provide shelter from the extreme heat during the day and protect them from predators. It’s not just their burrows that are impressive; the wombats can also dig at astonishing speeds, creating underground labyrinths that serve as their personal underground oasis!

MEET OUR

ANIMAL FAMILY

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Yellow-footed Rock-wallabies live in colonies of up to 100 individuals, consisting of smaller groups with a dominant male, females and sub-dominant males.

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Calling all bird lovers to our walk through Lorikeet enclosure. Enjoy our stunning Lorikeets flying around and possibly even landing on you!

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Quokka

Often called “the happiest animal in the world”, Quokkas are a small marsupial related to Kangaroos

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SOUTHERN HAIRY-NOSED WOMBAT

Affectionately known as ‘bulldozers of the bush’, wombats create remarkably large burrow. These underground homes offer perfect protection from extreme climates and predators, ensuring their safety year-round.

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Penguin

Little Penguins live in colonies that can have hundreds of members ashore at one time. From June-August, males will come ashore and renovate old burrows or dig new ones.

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