These are carnivorous predators or scavengers noted for their viciousness when cornered or attacked. The males help the females in caring for the young by cleaning or carrying the young when they are large enough to leave the mother's pouch. The bandicoots belong to the family Peramelidae. They have long, pointed snouts, and the hind limbs are slightly longer than the forelimbs. They are generally active, terrestrial, nocturnal animals.
Various species live in the forested regions, plains, and deserts of central Australia.
Some are native to the rain forests of New Guinea. They have coarse fur that ranges in color from light brown or gray to dark brown or black. Wombats are herbivores and live in burrows. The largest populations are found in forest habitats in the mountains of Tasmania and Australia. These tree-climbing creatures resemble small bears with thick, gray fur that is lighter on the underside of the body.