Chaeropus

Chaeropus was a genus of bandicoots endemic to Australia. It contained only one species, Chaeropus ecaudatus, commonly known as the Pig-footed Bandicoot. They are now considered extinct, with the last confirmed specimen collected in the early 20th century.

The Pig-footed Bandicoot was unusual among bandicoots, possessing slender limbs and two functional toes on each forefoot, resembling those of a pig or deer. Its hind feet had one functional toe, equipped with a strong claw. They were small, rat-sized marsupials with a long, pointed snout and large, erect ears.

Chaeropus inhabited arid and semi-arid regions of Australia, including Western Australia, South Australia, the Northern Territory, and New South Wales. Their diet is believed to have consisted of roots, tubers, fungi, ants, and termites.

The exact cause of their extinction is unknown, but it is likely due to a combination of factors including habitat loss from agricultural expansion and grazing, predation by introduced species such as foxes and cats, and disease. The impact of Aboriginal hunting on their population is debated, but likely contributed in some areas.

Several unsuccessful searches have been conducted to rediscover Chaeropus ecaudatus, but it is now widely considered to be extinct. Their unique morphology and adaptation to arid environments make them a notable loss to Australian biodiversity.