A fascinating little marsupial found along the east coast of Australia, in Tasmania, and in parts of southwestern Australia. It wears gray or black fur highlighted by white patches behind its eyes and usually has a creamy belly. One of its most eye-catching features is its long tail, which can curl around branches and often has a white tip making up over a quarter of its length. This flexible tail helps the possum move among the treetops with ease.

Another helpful trait is the way its back toes are fused together, allowing the possum to climb and grip branches more effectively. It also has sharp, pointed molars, which come in handy when it munches on leaves, flowers, and fruit. Although these possums love lush areas, they are not often found in dry regions, preferring temperate and tropical settings instead.

Besides its distinctive looks, the Common ringtail possum has some interesting behaviors. It is mostly active at night, using the darkness to forage for food high in the canopy. It often sleeps in a cozy, globe-shaped nest made of twigs and leaves, known as a drey. These possums usually live in small family groups and share nests with their partners and offspring. Female ringtail possums generally give birth to one or two babies (called joeys) at a time, carrying them first in a pouch, then on their backs once the joeys grow bigger.

Sadly, this endearing animal faces big challenges. Its numbers have dropped in many places because of deforestation, which removes the trees and shrubs it depends on. In urban areas, it also encounters threats like dogs, cats, and cars.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Australia

LC

2015