LCC’s project formed part of a larger project entitled ‘Creating safe havens for the western ringtail possum and priority nationally listed threatened species in the south-west’ that was delivered by South West NRM (previously South West Catchments Council).

The western ringtail possum is a nocturnal leaf-eating marsupial that is endemic to the south-west of Western Australia. It occurs nowhere else on earth, making it an important part of the rich biodiversity the south-west has to offer.

In Western Australia the western ringtail possum is listed as Critically Endangered under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016. Nationally it is also listed as Critically Endangered under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act). The species is under threat from a range of issues, including habitat loss and fragmentation; inappropriate fire regimes; changing climate; predation by foxes and feral cats; vehicle strikes and domestic pet attacks.

Between 2018 and 2023, the LCC undertook revegetation and management of four sites recognized as significant habitat for the western ringtail possum in the Greater Bunbury Region. This work was supported by a large number of dedicated volunteers who spent many hours in the field with us planting seedlings, spreading mulch and cleaning up rubbish! Regular community events were also held throughout the project which raised awareness about the conservation status of the western ringtail possum and encouraged people to coexist with possums. These events included artificial possum drey building workshops, possum night stalks, information sessions and market stall days, and coordinating the annual Ringtail Tally citizen science event.  

We hope to be able to continue the amazing work already achieved for western ringtail possums in our patch through future funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program.

This project was supported by the South West NRM, through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program, with assistance from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.

Useful References

Ringtail Tally Results

Western Ringtail Possums and Your Property

Living with Possums

Plants for a Possum Friendly Garden

What to do if you find an injured possum

• Call the DBCA Wildcard Helpline on (08) 9474 9055 or FAWNA on 0438 526 660 for advice on what to do. They can put you in touch with the nearest volunteer wildlife carer or vet that can take the animal for examination and treatment. In most cases there will be no cost to you.

• If you have to touch the animal, wrap it in a towel and place gently into a secure box or a bag with adequate ventilation.  Keep it in a quiet dark place until you can hand it over to a qualified rehabilitator.