STRIPED POSSUM
Dactylopsila trivirgata
The Striped possum is a unique and fascinating marsupial native to Australia. It is small with a body length of approx. 26cm, tail 32cm and a weight of approx. 420 gram
It is primarily found in the rainforests of north-eastern Australia in rainforests and eucalypt woodland along the east coast of Cape York Peninsula and as far south as Townsville, but it is uncommon and rarely seen. These possums are known for their distinct appearance, characterized by a dark brown to black body with three prominent white or cream-colored stripes running vertically along their back. They have large eyes and a prehensile tail, which helps them maneuver through the treetops.
As arboreal creatures, Striped possums spend most of their time in the canopy, using their specialized limbs and tail to navigate among the branches. They are primarily folivorous, feeding on a diet consisting mainly of leaves, flowers, and fruits. They have sharp, pointed teeth adapted for gripping and tearing plant material.
Striped possums are solitary animals and are mostly active at night, venturing out from their tree hollows to forage for food. They have been observed to cover large home ranges, with males occupying larger territories than females.
While their population status is not well-documented, these possums are generally considered to be relatively common in suitable habitats within their range. However, they can be sensitive to habitat fragmentation and deforestation, which can impact their populations.