Mastering the Monito del Monte
The Monito del Monte, also known as the colocolo opossum (Dromiciops gliroides) is a species of marsupial native to the central Andes mountains in Chile and western Argeninta. They are found exclusively in old-growth temperate rainforests, specifically those where southern beeches and Chilean bamboo are abundant. Despite their common name, they are not true opossums, but rather the only surviving member of the ancient order Microbiotheria.
Monito del Montes are almost entirely arboreal and nocturnal in nature. They are phenomenal climbers, thanks to their prehensile tails and large hands. They consume a variety of insects and fruits, particularly larvae, moths and butterflies, and mistletoe fruits. Despite their arboreal nature, they have a number of predators including grey foxes, Darwin's foxes, barn owls, and wild cats.
Colocolo opossums are monogamous, at least for the duration of the breeding season. Mating begins in late winter or spring spring, and continues from August to November. Females construct small nests lined with moss and Chilean bamboo high in the trees. After mating, gestation takes approximately 3-4 weeks. Up to 4 newborns then climb into their mother's pouch and attach themselves to their mother's teats. During this time, the mother remains active. Her young are weaned and leave the pouch after about 2 months, though they typically remain in the nest until late December. Juveniles become sexually mature at 2 years old; their full lifespan is unknown.
D. gliroides is a very small mammal; their snout-to-rump length is 8-13 cm (3.27 to 5.12 in), and the tail is the about same length as their body. Adults weigh between 16–42 g (0.56–1.48 oz); females tend to be larger than males. Both sexes are covered in brownish gray fur, white on the underside. They have very large eyes and ears, which helps them to navigate more effectively at night.
Conservation status: The Monito del Monte is considered Near Threatened by the IUCN. They are threatened primarily by habitat destruction, as they rely on stands of Chilean bamboo for their food and nests. They are also under increased predation pressure from introduced feral cats.
Photos
Roberto F. Nespolo
José Luis Bartheld
Vincente Valdez Guzman
