They are the name of a popular British band, are native to Australia and are also vegetarians — they’re wombats!
As the cuddly creatures and fans that love them celebrate National Wombat Day on Thursday, here is a list of some fun facts about the marsupials:
Species
There are three species of wombats: the Northern hairy-nosed, Southern hairy-nosed and Bare-nosed.
The Northern hairy-nosed wombat is known as the largest species and is nearing extinction, while the Southern hairy-nosed wombat can weigh up to 68 pounds.
Bare-nosed wombats are known as the Common wombat and are naturally plump in size.
Nighttime
Wombats are nocturnal, meaning that they come out to eat, play and work during the night.
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Brawn and brains
Bare-nosed wombats are the largest burrowing mammals in the world.
Their short legs and sharp claws are perfect for digging.
They are apparently very intelligent animals as well, listed as having the biggest brains of all marsupial creatures.
Slow metabolisms
If you thought your metabolism was slow, try matching that of the wombat.
It takes two weeks for wombats to fully digest their food.
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Pouch
Like kangaroos, wombats have pouches.
However, the wombat’s pouch is found towards its hind legs.
Birth
It takes between 20 to 30 days for a baby wombat, or joey, to develop before it is born.
After birth, the joey sits in its mother’s pouch for up to five months.
By seven months of its life, baby wombats are ready to be independent.
Lifespan
Wombats usually live, on average, for up to five years.
In the wild, some can live up to 30 years.
