Definition

Noun: 1. A carnivorous, arboreal, cat-like marsupial native to Australia and Tasmania: This term refers to a group of marsupial mammals that are not true cats but have a similar appearance and are adapted to living in trees. They are known for being meat-eaters.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The native cat is a skilled hunter, preying on birds and small mammals in the treetops.
  • Researchers are studying the population decline of the native cat in Tasmania.
  • Unlike placental cats, the native cat carries its young in a pouch.

Advanced Usage

• The term "native cat" is a common name that can refer to several species within the genus , such as the Tiger Quoll or Spotted-tailed Quoll. In scientific contexts, the specific Latin names (e.g., ) are preferred for clarity.

Variants and Related Words

• Quoll (n): This is a more specific and commonly used modern name for the animals historically called "native cats."
  • The Eastern Quoll is a small, spotted marsupial.
• Dasyurid (n): A member of the family Dasyuridae, which includes quolls, Tasmanian devils, and other carnivorous marsupials.
  • The Tasmanian devil is a large dasyurid.

Synonyms

• Quoll: The direct synonym and more precise common name.
• Spotted marsupial cat: A descriptive synonym emphasizing its appearance.

Notes on Meaning

• The term "native cat" is somewhat archaic and can be misleading, as these animals are marsupials, not felines. The word "native" distinguishes them from introduced placental cats (). In modern biological and conservation contexts, "quoll" is the standard term.

Noun

1. carnivorous arboreal cat-like marsupials of Australia and Tasmania