Common brushtail possum
Trichosurus vulpeculaNot shy, brushtail possums fight, feed and mate after dark in easy hearing of suburban residents in much of Australia.
During the day, brushtail possums stay in tree hollows or fallen logs. But at night they come out to feed, plundering flowers, fruit, buds and leaves of native plants. Mistletoe, one of their snacks, is a parasite that can kill gum trees, and possums help protect trees by controlling mistletoe.
The brushtail is a large possum with bushy tail and pointy ears. Usually silvery grey with a black band across the snout, they have a white to brownish-yellow belly. They breed throughout the year, and snarling and growling are common as they fight over mating or territory. They can also make a hullaballoo as they run across your roof, moving between feeding areas.
Common brushtail possums live up to their names! Found in many habitats, they live in wooded areas along Australia's east coast, eastern South Australia and south-west Western Australia. Brushtails are common in campgrounds, suburban backyards and sometimes the ceilings of houses! Look for mother possums piggybacking a baby as they move around at great heights. If you have a possum problem, contact authorities to deal with it humanely.
Last updated: 25 August 2006
