Western Ringtail Possum (Pseudocheirus occidentalis)

The Western Ring-Tailed Possum


Western ringtails are rare possums that face the threat of extinction due to a loss of habitat to human urbanization. This species is located in the peppermint woodlands in the southwest areas of Western Australia. The rapid decline of this species can be accounted for by the primary predator of the western ringtail possum-the fox. There are few efforts being made to preserve the natural habitat of the western ringtail possum. There is limited information on this species.

Western ringtails have thick grey hair with some intermingled brown fur throughout; the brown is more prominent closer to the underbelly. The underbelly is white as is the bottom half of the tail. A ring of black fur is present around the eyes. The average tail pf a western ringtail possum measures about the same as the head and body. Both parts measure about 350mm. Ringtail possums weigh 900g on average.

Leaves, flowers, and fruit are eaten in addition to various other types of plant material. Food is found in shrubbery near the nest.

Mating occurs fall through spring and females only produce one young in that time. Little else is known about the breeding habits of western ringtail possums.

Further Information on the Western Ringtail Possum:

Bibliography

A Field Guide to the Mammals of Australia, Menkhorst, P. and Knight, F. ©2001.

Western Ringtail Possum, Brown, J and Thomson, C,, 8/10/04, http://www.margaret-river-online.com.au/mammals/ringtail.htm/.