Common brushtail possum
A species of Brushtail possums Scientific name : Trichosurus vulpecula Genus : Brushtail possums
Common brushtail possum, A species of Brushtail possums
Scientific name: Trichosurus vulpecula
Genus: Brushtail possums
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Greg Schechter , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
The common brushtail possum has large and pointed ears. Its bushy tail (hence its name) is adapted to grasping branches, prehensile at the end with a hairless ventral patch. Its fore feet have sharp claws and the first toe of each hind foot is clawless, but has a strong grasp. The possum grooms itself with the third and fourth toes which are fused together. It has a thick and woolly pelage that varies in colour depending on the subspecies. Colour patterns tend to be silver-grey, brown, black, red, or cream. The ventral areas are typically lighter and the tail is usually brown or black. The muzzle is marked with dark patches. The common brushtail possum has a head and body length of 32–58 cm with a tail length of 24–40 cm. It weighs 1.2-4.5 kg. Males are generally larger than females. In addition, the coat of the male tends to be reddish at the shoulders. As with most marsupials, the female brushtail possum has a forward-opening, well-developed pouch. The chest of both sexes has a scent gland that emits a reddish secretion which stains that fur around it. It marks its territory with these secretions. 
General Info
Lifespan
6-13 years
Diet
The dietary tradition of common brushtail possum majorly incorporates Eucalyptus leaves, its primary food. Beyond this, it diversifies intake with fruits, flowers, bark, and even small insects when available, reflecting an adaptable and opportunistic dietary habit.
Appearance
Common brushtail possum is a medium-sized marsupial with a compact, stocky body. Its lush, fur varies from grey to dark or gold-brown, often sporting a white belly. It has pointed, leathery ears and a thin, bushy tail. Key distinguishing features include a distinctly sharp snout, similar to a fox, and coarse fur. Its nocturnal nature is reflected in its large, round eyes that provide keen night vision. There are no significant differences between genders or age groups in terms of physical appearance.
Behavior
Common brushtail possum exhibits nocturnal arboreal habits, emphasizing on eucalyptus leaves in its foraging activities. Known for scent marking, it uses secretions from specialized glands for territorial demarcation. Despite its solitary nature, juveniles experience extended maternal care. Its distinctive meaty tail aids in climbing and provides balance, adapting well to its tree-dwelling lifestyle.
Population
Decreasing
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Mammals Order
Diprotodontians Genus
Brushtail possums Species
Common brushtail possum 
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