Ghost of the Australian Bush

Discovery Reveals Hidden Diversity in Native Marsupials

A fascinating new chapter in Australia's wildlife story has emerged with the identification of a previously unrecognized species of native bushland marsupial—closely related to the kangaroo—through groundbreaking research.

By analyzing fossils collected from caves across the vast Nullarbor and southwest Australia, researchers from Curtin University, the Western Australian Museum, and Murdoch University have uncovered a distinct new species of bettong, along with two new subspecies of the charming woylie.

Woylies are remarkable ecosystem engineers, capable of turning over several tonnes of earth each year while foraging for their favorite underground fungi treats. These adorable kangaroo relatives, native to Western Australia, are the country's most frequently translocated mammal, thanks to dedicated conservation efforts that relocate them to protected areas to bolster their populations.

Lead author Mr. Jake Newman-Martin, a PhD student in Curtin’s School of Molecular and Life Sciences, said the discovery has unlocked exciting insights into the rich diversity of woylies, also known as brush-tailed bettongs.

“Woylies are critically endangered marsupials that have been the focus of inspiring conservation efforts for decades,” Mr. Newman-Martin said.

“In this new research, we’ve identified a completely new species based on fossil material, and two new subspecies of woylies for the first time. These elusive forms highlight the incredible hidden variety within this group, reminding us of the vast, unexplored Australian outback where surprises may still await.

“Our results recognize two distinct living subspecies of the woylie, which is incredibly valuable for conservation as we refine breeding and translocation programs to enhance population health and genetic diversity.”

Co-author Dr. Kenny Travouillon, Curator of Terrestrial Zoology at the Western Australian Museum, said the team used precise bone measurements to reveal the full diversity of woylies and related species.

“This research confirmed several distinct forms and greatly expanded our understanding of woylie diversity by closely examining skull and body fossil material that had previously received less attention,” Dr. Travouillon said.

“What we’ve discovered shows how studying fossils alongside modern genetic tools can provide powerful insights to support and strengthen conservation for this beloved native species.”

The scientific name for the enigmatic Nullarbor form is Bettongia haoucharae, evoking the "ghost of the Australian bush" due to its elusive nature in the immense outback. The researchers are collaborating with Indigenous communities to develop an appropriate shared name, honoring that "woylie" itself is a Noongar word.

This discovery celebrates the enduring wonder of Australia's unique wildlife and the potential for future finds in its expansive landscapes.