Types of Possums Found in Australia

Nature’s creations are fascinating. However, when humans invade the natural habitats of other creatures, there is a high chance they will find refuge in our buildings. One of the many such animals is the possum. Making loud noises, hissing, growling, and even screaming are a few ways possums use to scare humans. When possums feel really scared, they go full-on drama mode – they flop over, stick out their tongue, and slow their heartbeat. They even release a smell that mimics a rotting corpse, convincing any predator that they’re not worth the trouble.

In Australia possums are protected by the National Parks and Wildlife Act of 1972. Hence if they are living on your compound, then you have to contact a professional possum pest control expert who will gingerly remove these and more so ensure they do not return.

Let’s take a closer look at the different types of possums you might encounter and what makes each of them unique.

Common Brushtail Possum

The brushtail possum is one that most people who live in Australia have seen but did not know is actually a possum. Measuring the size of a small domestic cat, this possum is common in backyards and may find its way into your house roof. Hence the nickname “brushtail” because of the thick fur that forms its tail which is used as a balance organ.

Key Features:

Size: Body length of 35-55 cm (like a small cat)
Appearance: Grey to black fur with a bushy tail
Diet: Eats just about anything – leaves, flowers, fruits, and insects
Habitat: Adapts well to urban areas, forests, and woodlands

Ringtail Possum

Ringtail possums are somewhat smaller than the brushtail possum and their body structure is more fragile. They are called ‘three-fingered’ primates owing to the prop-like curled tail they have for an ‘additional’ hand to grasp branches. These possums, however, are different from brushtails and make their homes in tree canopies, where they make their nest referred to as “dreys”.

Key Features:

Size: Smaller, around 30-35 cm long
Appearance: Soft grey-brown fur with a white tip on the tail
Diet: Loves leaves, flowers, and young shoots
Habitat: Found in forests, gardens, and bushland areas

Sugar Glider

The sugar glider is a small, arboreal, nocturnal marsupial which is celebrated for its ability to glide. These little possums have an almost translucent skin membrane that starts on the wrists and goes all the way down to the ankles so they really do glide from tree to tree like one of the flying squirrels, albeit a tiny one.

Key Features:

Size: Small, weighing only 100-160 grams
Appearance: Grey with a dark stripe down its back
Diet: Sweet-toothed – loves nectar, sap, fruits, and insects
Habitat: Found in eucalyptus forests and woodlands

Greater Glider

The greater glider is a rather colourful and interesting species of animal, which are rather large and effective gliders. While you can easily spot the sugar glider – it is a somewhat timid animal that prefers to sit on the top branches as far from the ground as it can get.

Key Features:

Size: One of the largest gliders, up to 90 cm, including the tail
Appearance: Fluffy, with fur ranging from dark brown to white
Diet: Loves munching on eucalyptus leaves
Habitat: Prefers old-growth forests and tall eucalyptus trees

Mountain Pygmy Possum

This animal is one of the world’s smallest marsupials, endemic to the mountains of Victoria and South New Wales. These possums are quite small and they are generally well suited to the unforgivably severe environments of the Australia high country. Since they are critically endangered, it’s critical to make conservation efforts crucial for its survival.

Key Features:

Size: Tiny, weighing about 45 grams
Appearance: Soft grey-brown fur with a cream belly
Diet: Primarily feeds on bogong moths, seeds, and berries
Habitat: Lives in rocky alpine environments

Feathertail Glider

The feathertail glider is the world’s smallest gliding mammal. It has the name of this quirky type of tail, which looks like a feather and is used for steering while the creature glides. Despite being a small animal, this possum is a fast and good climber. The feathertail glider’s feather-like tail acts as a rudder, helping it navigate tight corners while gliding through the treetops.

Key Features:

Size: Tiny, weighing only 10-15 grams
Appearance: Grey fur with a distinct feather-like tail
Diet: Enjoys nectar, pollen, and small insects
Habitat: Found in forests, woodlands, and sometimes suburban gardens

Yellow-bellied Glider

This species emits loud screeching calls at night. Its name originates from the bright yellow colour found only in its underwings and the yellow colouration on the belly of the male. It has a light yellow underpart and a long, sparsely furred tail. It is well adapted to live off tree exudates; it cuts into eucalyptus trees with its teeth and laps the nectar that oozes out.

Key Features:

Size: Medium to large, about 40-60 cm long
Appearance: Dark grey fur with a cream or yellow belly
Diet: Loves sap, nectar, insects, and honeydew
Habitat: Found in tall eucalyptus forests

Concluding Words

Australia’s possums are more than just noisy night visitors. They’re resilient survivors, agile acrobats, and tiny gardeners of the night. By understanding and appreciating these furry friends, we can help protect the delicate balance of our ecosystems and ensure that future generations get to experience the magic of spotting a sugar glider sailing through the treetops or hearing the playful calls of a ringtail family high above.

At OZ Pest Control, we provide effective, humane solutions for possum management. Our experienced pest control team in Maitland team understands local wildlife laws and uses safe methods to handle possum issues. Reach out to us to learn more about our services.