Quenda
In Perth there are a couple of spots where you can see Bandicoots or Quenda as I would prefer to call them. Bandicoots is a European name meaning ‘pig-footed rat’ – Quenda is one of the Aboriginal names which is much better. They can be mistaken for rats but their nose is much enlongated, they have a sloped body profile, have a shorter tail and are a much cuter, native marsupial!
Locations
- Victoria Gardens, East Perth – so close to the city!
- Lesmurdie Falls picnic area
They can be fairly common in the Perth Hills – one spot is the Lesmurdie Falls picnic area just down from the main carpark – see my blog – mostly seen just before sunset and they seem pretty calm – best not to feed them like my son tried to!
- Piney Lakes
One of my recent finds is Piney Lakes – I saw Quenda feeding during the day there and will a little skittish – if you approach with care you can get good views. I went a second time and didn’t see a single one – so might be not such a good spot.
- Murdoch University
The another place they can be seen is within the grounds of Murdoch University – around many of the buildings. Can be best to try out of term time when there are less students and a tip I have been given is near the cafeteria.
More spots to come as I discover them! I also need to do additional research on what other Peramelids can be found in the Perth region. I saw an Eastern Long-nosed Bandicoot here in Sydney.
Wildlife Watching in Australia 