description Common Brushtail Possum Overview
The common brushtail possum, Trichosurus vulpecula, is a nocturnal marsupial native to Australia and readily recognized by its pointed ears and thick, bushy tail. It occupies forests, woodlands, farms, and urban areas, where it often shelters in tree hollows or buildings and eats leaves, fruit, flowers, and other plant material. Introduced to New Zealand during the nineteenth century for the fur trade, it became an invasive species that damages native vegetation and can affect wildlife and agriculture.
help Common Brushtail Possum FAQ
How do I identify a common brushtail possum?
Trichosurus vulpecula is about the size of a domestic cat, with large pointed ears, a pointed snout, and a thick bushy tail. Fur can be grey, black, or copper-toned depending on the region ([NSW Government](https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/topics/animals-and-plants/native-animals/native-animal-facts/land-mammals/brush-tailed-possum)).
Where does the common brushtail possum live and when is it active?
It is nocturnal and widespread across Australia's forests, woodlands, tree-lined rivers, parks, and suburbs. By day it shelters in tree hollows, rock cavities, or sometimes the roof space of a building ([NSW Government](https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/topics/animals-and-plants/native-animals/native-animal-facts/land-mammals/brush-tailed-possum)).
What does the common brushtail possum eat and how does it raise young?
Its diet includes leaves, buds, flowers, fruit, and sometimes insects, eggs, or nestlings. Gestation is about 17 days, the young stays in the pouch for around 5 months, and then rides on the mother's back for about 2 months ([NSW Government](https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/topics/animals-and-plants/native-animals/native-animal-facts/land-mammals/brush-tailed-possum)).
Why is the common brushtail possum considered a pest in New Zealand?
It is native to Australia but was introduced to New Zealand for the fur trade, with the first release recorded in 1837. There it harms native forests and birds, so New Zealand's Department of Conservation treats it as a major environmental pest ([New Zealand Department of Conservation](https://www.doc.govt.nz/nature/pests-and-threats/animal-pests-and-threats/possums/)).
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