What structural trait makes a wombat's rear end crucial for defense against predators like dingoes?

Answer

It possesses disproportionately strong muscle mass supporting powerful backward kicking and bracing.

While the forelimbs manage the excavation work, the wombat’s hindquarters are engineered for dual roles: supporting the excavation process and providing robust defense. The rear end is noted as being disproportionately strong in terms of muscle mass. This strength is vital for two defensive actions: first, bracing its armored rump firmly against the tunnel roof to physically block a pursuing predator; and second, utilizing the powerful hind legs to deliver a crushing blow against the intruder’s skull if they attempt entry. This strong hindquarter development reflects an evolutionary pressure that favored high-force application symmetry between the front (digging) and rear (defense/debris removal) components.

What structural trait makes a wombat's rear end crucial for defense against predators like dingoes?

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