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Western ringtail possum

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description Western ringtail possum Overview

The western ringtail possum is a small, nocturnal marsupial native to southwestern Western Australia. It is primarily arboreal, feeds largely on leaves, and uses its prehensile tail while moving through forest and woodland canopies. Oldfield Thomas described the species in 1888, and it is classified as critically endangered because of habitat loss, fragmentation, predation, and other pressures.

help Western ringtail possum FAQ

Where can western ringtail possums still be found?

Their remaining range is restricted to southwestern Western Australia, especially the coastal region around Bunbury, Busselton, Dunsborough and Albany. They use peppermint woodland, coastal heath and some urban gardens with connected tree canopy.

How can you identify a western ringtail possum?

It is a relatively small possum with rounded ears, a pale underside and a long prehensile tail that often has a white tip. Unlike the common brushtail possum, it frequently curls the tail into a ring, which gives the species its common name.

Why is the western ringtail possum critically endangered?

Habitat clearing, fragmented tree canopy, road deaths, predation and hotter, drier conditions have reduced its population and isolated colonies. The Australian government lists Pseudocheirus occidentalis as critically endangered.

What should I do if a western ringtail possum lives in my garden?

Keep dogs and cats away at night, retain connected canopy and avoid disturbing dreys or hollow trees. In Western Australia, an injured or displaced possum should be reported to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or the Wildcare Helpline.

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