GREEN RINGTAIL POSSUM

    The Green ringtail possum is primarily found in the dense, wet tropical rainforests of north-eastern Queensland. It inhabits both lowland and upland areas, including regions such as the Daintree Rainforest, Atherton Tablelands, and the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.

The Green ringtail possum is endemic to north-eastern Queensland, with its distribution limited to fragmented patches of suitable rainforest habitat in the region.

This possum has a unique appearance with dense, woolly fur that ranges in color from olive green to dark green. It has a robust body, large rounded ears, and a long, prehensile tail that helps it navigate the treetops. It is relatively small in size, with adults typically weighing between 500 and 800 grams.

The Green ringtail possum is primarily nocturnal, spending its days resting in tree hollows or leaf nests. It becomes active at night, foraging for a variety of plant materials such as leaves, fruits, flowers, and occasionally bark.

The Green ringtail possum is currently listed as “vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Its population faces threats from habitat loss and fragmentation due to land clearing, logging, and agricultural activities. Climate change and potential changes in rainfall patterns also pose a risk to its habitat.

The Green ringtail possum plays an important ecological role as a folivore and frugivore in the rainforest ecosystem. It contributes to seed dispersal, pollination, and nutrient cycling through its feeding habits and movement patterns.

Given its limited range and vulnerable status, the conservation of the Green ringtail possum and its habitat is crucial to maintain the biodiversity and ecological integrity of the north-eastern Queensland rainforests.