Saturday 21 January 2012

Grooming is important


Pademelons host an impressive collection of ectoparasites, including fleas, ticks and louse flies (Hippoboscidae) that scuttle through the fur, so it is no wonder they are fastidious about grooming. They pay particular attention to their ears, which they clean after they've dealt with paws and muzzle.

It is not always easy to get photos of paddies washing their faces. Although they will scratch themselves and chew their toenails with abandon, they are more secretive about this aspect of grooming. Even Red, who doesn't care much who's watching, retired to the long grass. But he didn't count on the longer lens.












I am impressed that he doesn't do himself any damage with those claws. I've been scratched (accidentally) and they are very, very sharp.