Phalangers, or cuscus, are animals about as big as a house cat. They live in trees in the forests of Australia, New Zealand and New Guinea. They are active at night and rest in the daytime out of sight, often stretching out along the branch of a tree. Their tails are like an extra hand to them, curling tightly around branches as they travel swiftly through the trees.
There are several species of them, ranging in size from a mouse to a cat. Most of them have soft, thick fur in pretty colors. Their strong tails are woolly, but the tips are covered with coarse scales. Their claws are ideal for climbing. Most of them eat insects, small birds and tiny animals, but others are more interested in vegetable dinners.
Females have up to six tiny babies—hairless and helpless at birth. After being carried and fed for a few months in the mother’s pouch, the babies become covered with fur and learn how to care for themselves.
One species is named spotted cuscus. It is considered by many to be the prettiest of all. Its grayish-white fur has odd-shaped patches of red. In addition to strong claws, its hind feet have fleshy pads which give it a firm hold on smooth branches. Like the others, it is a night hunter. Its food includes small animals and birds, as well as quantities of leaves.
Another, the ring-tailed, is different in many ways from its relatives. Its tail, for instance, has woolly fur covering only the top and sides and is smooth underneath with a scaly tip. These features help it get a good hold on a branch or other support as it hangs upside down to reach for food.
The great flying phalanger has a blackish-brown silky coat on its back and white underneath. It is about 20 inches long, plus a tail of the same length. Like the flying squirrels, which we considered a while ago, the Creator has provided it with special loose skin that stretches out between its front and hind legs as it glides through the air, jumping from one tree to another. It also uses its tail as a rudder.
Smallest of all is the pigmy flyer, only five inches long, including its tail. The babies, carried in the mother’s pouch, are not much larger than a big ant.
If space allowed we could consider many others, all of which are examples of the wonders of the Lord God’s creation in which He took much pleasure. In a coming time those who know Him as their Saviour will give Him their praises in the beauties of heaven. Up there we may learn much more about the wonders of His creation. Will you be there?
MAY 15, 1994
ML-05/15/1994