Golden Brushtail Possum

Golden Brushtail Possums are a striking animal covered in a soft golden fur. They are slightly larger and plumper than the size of the average domestic cat. They have strong claws and sharp teeth. Due to their colouration they are often thought to be albinos although this is not correct as they do have coloured pigmentation for their skin and eyes. Golden Brush-tail Possums are a genetic mutation of the well-known Common Brushtail Possum. They also nest in tree hollows or cavities in buildings. Although Common Brushtails are widespread through Mainland Australia the Golden form has only been found in the eucalypt forests of Tasmania and south of Sydney. Golden Brushtail Possums feed on eucalypt leaves, blossoms and fruits. Their tail is prehensile and allows them to reach long distances to reach the freshest and tastiest of foods whilst still being secured to the tree. As with all possum species they are nocturnal and only emerge at night to forage for food and search for a mate during the breeding season. They are solitary animals only coming together for mating. Males are strongly territorial and will engage in aggressive encounters to ensure rights to food and females. Females become sexually mature at 2-3 years of age. The female comes into season every 54 days with a gestation period of 44 days. This is the longest gestation period of any marsupial. Females give birth to single young which climb into a forward facing pouch and attach to a teat. Young are considered to be independent at around 18 months – 2 years of age. However the female may already have another young in her pouch at this stage.