Trichosurus vulpecula
Description
An adult brushtail is similar in size to a large cat. The basic colour of the brushtail possum is grey with black markings around the snout. On the underside, the fur is cream coloured. The distinctive tail, shaped like a brush, is black and bushy. A brushtail possum's ears are pointed with a patch of white fur at the base of each ear.
Distribution
Brushtail possums are widespread, ranging from the south west of Western Australia, wooded areas in Central Australia, south eastern South Australia and eastern Australia.
Habits and Habitat
The brushtail is usually a solitary animal which normally makes its home in the hollow of a large gum tree. Many brushtails are territorial and are often heard 'barking' at each other at night. Fights sometimes occur in order to protect property.
The natural diet of a brushtail possum consists of leaves, blossums and fruit. However, because it can adapt extremely well to suburbia, its diet can include various food scraps.
Births occur from March to May with a minor peak from August to October. However, births have been recorded in all months of the year. The gestation period is 17 to 18 days. Pouch life lasts from four to five months, the young are weaned one to two months after leaving the pouch.
Brushtail possums have adapted well to city life.
Links and References
Tim Flannery (1997), "Possums of the World", Gary Allen Pty Ltd
Leonard Cronin (2000), "Australian Mammals", Envirobook (Key Guide Series)