Key facts:
- Brushtail possums are the size of a cat and can jump from tree to tree
- As marsupials, they have a pouch to carry their babies, joeys
- It is the law that possums cannot be moved from their territory because they might die
Australia is full of furry, feathered, and scaly animals, not found anywhere else in the world. Meet some common Australian animals and improve your English language skills with .
Learning notes
- (pdf - 649kb)
- Watch with subtitles and translated transcripts by switching your language in the top right navigation.
Transcript
Have you ever heard a thumping and screeching sound in your roof?
Well, it may be a brushtail possum.
Living with Aussie Wildlife
Brushtail Possums
Australia is home to many animals that live in trees.
The common brushtail possum has adapted to living in the suburbs so you may find them in your neighbourhood.
Brushtail possums get their name from their black brushy tails.
They also have large, pointed ears, silver-grey fur and sharp claws.
They are size of a cat and can jump from tree to tree.
Brushtail possums live right across Australia.
They eat the leaves, flowers, and fruits of many native trees.
Possums may also eat our fruit and vegetables.
If we plant lots of native trees, they may leave the fruit trees alone.
Possums are marsupials.
Marsupials have a pouch to carry their babies. Baby possums are called joeys.
Sometimes the joeys fall off their mum’s back and get lost.
Possum joeys cannot survive without their mums.
So if you find a joey on its own you should contact a wildlife rescue service or your local vet.
Brushtail possums are territorial, which means they stay in one area.
Usually, possums live in tree hollows.
When there are no tree hollows, they may try to find a home in a roof.
It is the law that possums cannot be moved from their territory.
If you take it away from its territory it may die.
Please call your local rescue service for advice if you have a possum in your home.
Never use poisons on possums because they are protected wildlife.
Quiz time!
Possums must not be harmed because they are...
..protected, endangered or cute?
Possums must not be harmed because they are protected.
Possums are shy and will never harm you if you stay away.
Possums are cute, furry animals that are an important part of our eco-system.
We love living with possums!
Credits
Living with Aussie Wildlife is a project made by SBS in partnership with and .
