SPECIES: Trichosurus vulpecula arnhemensis — Northern Brushtail Possum
CLASSIFICATION: Vulnerable
The Northern Brushtail Possum is one of four possums found in the NT. Possums are one of the most adapted native animals able to survive in the urban environment. It's probably not quite the skill to be proud of, making them less fearful of human interaction. Despite what its name suggests - and unlike its relatives - the Northern Brushtail Possum does NOT have a brushy tail.
Never underestimate the importance of a possum, vital in spreading pollen and seeds for many native plants and flowers. Sadly, many of the possums in the NT are found to have contracted a flesh-eating bacterium causing their faces to be eaten away and can often result in blindness. Their fearless behaviour has made them susceptible to cat and dog attacks, car strikes and poisoning from rodent baits.
Photo: Scarlet23