Common Brushtail Possum
Introduction
About the Common Brushtail Possum
The Common Brushtail Possum is probably the best known of the possums in Sydney because it has adapted to urban living and often comes into contact with people.
Habitat
Where do they live?
Common Brushtail Possums live in urban areas, forests and woodlands and heath.
Distribution
Where are they found?
Common Brushtail Possums are found in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania, Western Australia and Northern Territory. Also found in New Zealand.
Feeding and diet
What does it eat?
In the wild, the Common Brushtail Possum's diet consists of leaves, blossoms and fruits, but in suburbia it will eat almost anything.
Biology
Behaviours and adaptations
The Common Brushtail Possum is nocturnal and, during the day, retreats to a hollow log, branch, tree trunk or any dark area, even inside house roofs.
Prey and predators
The Common Brushtail Possum's main predators include Dingoes, pythons, foxes and cats.
Conservation
Environmental impacts
The Common Brushtail Possum was introduced to New Zealand in the 1830s where it has now become a pest species. In Australia, it is a protected species.
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