Ground cuscus

The ground cuscus, Phalanger gymnotis, is a marsupial of the order Diprotodontia in the family Phalangeridae. It is endemic to New Guinea and the Aru Islands and lives in forests and scrubland, most commonly between 500 and 1,500 m. Unlike every other phalangerid it spends its days in burrows in the ground and seems as comfortable on the ground as in the trees, which makes it vulnerable to hunting with dogs. It averages 2.5 to 3.0 kg, with short dense grey fur, a prehensile tail with a coarse base, and opposable hind thumbs. It is solitary and fights by rearing up and lashing out with its forelimbs while hissing and barking. A captive animal lived for 18 years. It is classed as Least Concern, although excessive hunting has removed it from parts of its range.