Mammals
Common Brushtail Possum
Trichosurus vulpecula · also called brushtail possum, silver-grey possum
Emerging from a tree hollow at dusk, a common brushtail possum sets off to forage across its home range, the same remarkable adaptability that makes it Australia’s most widespread native marsupial also making it one of New Zealand’s most damaging invasive species.
Overview
The common brushtail possum, Trichosurus vulpecula, is a widespread nocturnal marsupial native to forest and grassland habitat across nearly the entire Australian mainland and Tasmania. Its extraordinary adaptability across habitats from remote forest to city rooftops, thick prehensile tail, and status as a highly damaging invasive species in New Zealand make it one of the more ecologically consequential marsupials found anywhere in the world.
A native success story and an invasive disaster
The very traits that make the common brushtail possum thrive almost everywhere in its native Australia, adaptability, a varied diet, and comfort denning near people, have made it one of New Zealand’s most destructive introduced species since its arrival for the fur trade.
Status
Least Concern in its native Australia, where it remains abundant and widespread, despite being considered a serious invasive pest in introduced New Zealand populations.
Common Brushtail Possum: common questions
Why is the common brushtail possum considered a pest in New Zealand?
This species was introduced to New Zealand for the fur trade and has become one of the country's most damaging invasive species, stripping native forest canopy vegetation and preying on the eggs and chicks of native birds that evolved without any defence against a browsing mammal predator.
Why is the common brushtail possum so widespread in Australia?
This species is the most widespread and adaptable native marsupial in Australia, able to thrive in habitats ranging from remote forest to major cities, denning in tree hollows in the wild and readily switching to roof cavities and wall spaces where urban development has removed natural shelter.
What does the common brushtail possum use its tail for?
This species has a thick, bushy, prehensile tail capable of gripping branches, providing extra support and stability while climbing and foraging through the forest canopy at night, functioning almost like an additional limb.
Is the common brushtail possum social?
No, this species is largely solitary, foraging alone each night and defending its home range through loud coughing, hissing, and growling vocalisations rather than living or travelling in groups.