What does numbat mean?
A numbat is a small, distinctive marsupial native to southwestern Australia. It is easily recognized by the dark stripes running across its sandy-colored back, its pointed snout, and its long tail. Numbats hunt termites, which they locate using smell and then gather with their strong front claws and specialized tongue. Unlike many Australian mammals, they are active mainly during the day, although their activity varies with temperature and season. The animal occurs especially in eucalyptus forests, woodlands, and shrublands, and its numbers have been affected by habitat loss, fire, introduced predators, and other environmental pressures. The numbat is the only living species in the family Myrmecobius and has a remarkable combination of marsupial anatomy and specialized termite-eating behavior. It is also one of the most recognizable and appealing symbols of Australia’s unusual native wildlife.
nounA small, striped, insectivorous marsupial native to southwestern Australia, having a pointed snout and a long bushy tail. Numbats feed primarily on termites and are among the few marsupials active as dedicated termite hunters.
- A striped, termite-eating marsupial of southwestern Australia, scientifically known as Myrmecobius fasciatus.
"The numbat carefully dug into the termite mound, searching for its prey."
"A numbat crossed the path before disappearing into the undergrowth."
"Conservationists have worked to protect numbat populations and their habitat."
The standard plural is "numbats."
"Numbats use their front claws to open termite galleries."
With its bold stripes and pointed snout, the numbat looks unlike most other marsupials; its stripes are especially striking in an animal that lives mainly in eucalyptus forests and woodland.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does numbat come from?
The English name “numbat” is generally understood to come from a Noongar word, namba, referring to the animal. The name entered English during the period of European exploration and settlement in Australia, before becoming the established modern zoological term. Its scientific name, Myrmecobius fasciatus, was formed within the scientific naming tradition and does not represent a direct English cognate.
How numbat is actually used
The term is normally used for the Australian animal. In zoological and conservation contexts, the fuller form "striped numbat" is also common.
Easily confused with numbat
A numbat is an Australian marsupial, whereas anteaters are placental mammals native to the Americas.