Where do they live?

Ringtail possums live in trees and dense shrubs, where they build distinctive round nests called dreys from twigs, leaves and bark. They are commonly found in gardens, bushland and parks, particularly where there is plenty of dense vegetation to provide food and shelter.

What do they eat?

In the wild, ringtail possums feed mainly on leaves, flowers, fruits and other plant material. In suburban areas, they will often browse on roses and other ornamental plants found in gardens.

While it may be tempting to feed possums, providing foods such as fruit can contribute to poor nutrition, obesity and dependence on people for food, so it’s best to let them find their own natural diet. 

What do they look like?

Eastern Ringtail Possums are about the size of a cat, with soft grey fur, a pale belly and distinctive white patches behind their eyes. Their long, curled tail has a white tip and can be used like an extra limb, helping them climb and move through trees, fences and powerlines with remarkable agility.

Removal of Possums

Trapping or relocating possums without a licence is illegal. Follow these steps and guidelines to share our urban environment and ensure our roofs stay possum free.

How can you support Ringtail Possums?

• Keep and protect all trees with hollows, even if they are dead: large tree hollows are critical for Possums to nest during the day. When natural tree hollows are scarce, brush-tailed possums may make their homes in roof spaces, sheds and garages.
• Check the pouch: if you spot a deceased possum, make sure you check the pouch for babies that may still be alive, even if mum isn't. If you find any babies, leave them in the pouch and call the nearest wildlife rescue group. On the Northern Beaches, that would be WIRES (1300 094 737) or Sydney Wildlife (9413 4300). 
• Create a backyard sanctuary: Turn your garden into a safe refuge for local wildlife by planting native shrubs and ground covers that offer food and shelter. Help protect them further by keeping pets indoors at night. For practical tips, see Backyard Habitat. 

Fun facts

• Ringtail possums often have twins and occasionally even triplets. A baby possum is called a joey.
• Ringtail possums re-ingest faecal pellets, allowing them to digest their food a second time and extract additional nutrients.