Mammals of the WorldCommon Brush-tailed Possum
Trichosurus vulpecula
- Order
- Diprotodontia
- Family
- Phalangeridae
- Genus
- Trichosurus
- IUCN status
- LC
- Distribution
- Australia
- Realm
- Australasia
Other names: Common Brushtail|Silver-grey Possum
About this species
- Size
- Length 65–95 cm including tail
- Habitat
- Forest, scrub, farmland and urban parks
- Range
- North Island, South Island
Trichosurus vulpecula is an introduced Australian marsupial widespread across New Zealand. It differs from rodents through its prehensile tail, large ears and forward-opening pouch. It has dense grey or brown fur, a pink nose and a thick dark tail. The eyes reflect brightly during night searches.
Possums occupy forests, farms and urban green spaces on the main islands. Intensive control reduces them in sanctuaries and conservation forests. They browse leaves, flowers and fruit and also eat eggs and invertebrates. They are nocturnal climbers that den in trees or sheltered cavities.
New Zealand treats the common brushtail possum as Introduced. After-dark sightings are possible in Wellington’s outer green belt and around Dunedin’s wooded suburbs.
Description: Wildlife of New Zealand guide, Wildlife of Everywhere (wildlifeofeverywhere.com)