This tiny marsupial has orgies so hardcore that it dies

 By 
Max Knoblauch
 on 
Original image replaced with Mashable logo
Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

For the extremely cute, mouse-like marsupial known as the antechinus, romance is not a priority.

The animals are known for having intense mating-season sex parties lasting, in some cases, up to 14 hours. The males become so stressed by these hormone-fueled competitive orgies that their fur falls off in patches, they bleed internally and they die.

Australian researchers recently discovered two new species of antechinus, the Tasman Peninsula dusky antechinus and the mainland dusky antechinus, living in Tasmania and the south-eastern portion of the continent.

Original image replaced with Mashable logo
Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

According to ABC Australia, scientists are petitioning the governments of Queensland and Tasmania to list several species of the animal as endangered, as their habitats are being lost to logging.

It also probably doesn't help that about half of them die from sex.

Original image replaced with Mashable logo
Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

According to Scientific American, females of the species only live about one year themselves.

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BONUS: 5 strange, but true animal sex facts

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