COMMON BRUSHTAIL POSSUM

Common Brushtail possums have a distinctive bushy tail covered in black fur at the top and a naked underside. Their fur colour can vary from silver-grey to brown, and they typically have a cream-colored patch on their forehead. They have large ears and sharp claws for climbing.

On average, Common Brushtail possums measure about 32-58 centimeters in length, with their tail adding an additional 24-40 centimeters. They weigh around 1.2 to 4.5 kilograms, with males generally being larger than females.

These possums are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats across Australia, including forests, woodlands, and urban areas. They are known for their ability to live in close proximity to humans and are often found in gardens, roofs, and tree hollows.

Common Brushtail possums are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are active during the night. They spend their days resting in tree hollows, dreys (nests), or hidden in dense foliage. They are excellent climbers and use their strong tail as a fifth limb for balance and support.

These possums are herbivores and have a varied diet. They primarily feed on eucalyptus leaves, but they also consume a range of other plant material, including flowers, fruits, buds, and even the bark of trees.

Common Brushtail possums have a breeding season that typically occurs from May to September. After a gestation period of around 16-18 days, a single joey  is born. The joey then crawls into its mother’s pouch, where it continues to develop and nurse for several months. It gradually starts venturing out of the pouch and eventually rides on its mother’s back until it becomes independent.

They are known for their various vocalizations, including growls, screeches, and hisses. They use these sounds for communication, especially during territorial disputes or mating encounters.

The Common Brushtail possum is not currently considered endangered or threatened. In fact, its adaptability has allowed it to thrive in both natural and human-altered environments. However, it is protected by law and should not be taken or relocated.