Conilurus

Conilurus is a genus of rodents in the family Muridae, endemic to Australia and New Guinea. These rodents are commonly known as tree-rats or rabbit-rats, reflecting their arboreal habits and relatively large size for rodents.

The genus Conilurus currently contains two recognized species:

• Conilurus albipes (White-footed Rabbit-rat): Presumed extinct, with the last confirmed sighting in the 1860s. It was found in southeastern Australia.

• Conilurus penicillatus (Brush-tailed Rabbit-rat): Found in northern Australia and southern New Guinea. This species is more common and is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.

Conilurus species are characterized by their long, brush-tipped tails, large ears, and relatively long hind feet. They are primarily nocturnal and arboreal, inhabiting forests, woodlands, and grasslands. They construct nests in tree hollows or logs. Their diet consists of seeds, fruits, leaves, and invertebrates. Threats to Conilurus species include habitat loss due to agriculture, grazing, and urbanization, as well as predation by introduced species such as foxes and cats. Conservation efforts are focused on protecting and restoring their habitats and controlling introduced predators.