Western Pygmy-possum

(Cercartetus concinnus) - 'elegant Cercartetus spp.'

Distribution

Kangaroo Island, southern parts of South Australia and South Western Western Australia.

Habitat

Heathland to woodland and dry sclerophyll forest with dense understorey. It is an active climber among shrubs using the prehensile tail as a fifth limb. Sleeps during the day in a small tree-hole, which is softened with leaves.

Size

Head & Body: 7-11cm; Tail: 7-10cm - tail almost as long as the body!

Identification

Pinkish around a pointed nose, with large eyes and ears. Small, light black nose. Fur on the body is grey on the back and whitish on the underside. It has large, pink paws.

General Info

• Pygmy possums are able to go into a state of torpor when exposed to cold temperatures or when food is scarce. Torpor is a means of conserving energy and involves lowering of body temperature and heart rate (similar to the physiological changes that occur in hibernating animals, but as it is not prolonged they are able to spontaneously arouse from the torpid state).
• Breeds throughout the year. 2 (sometimes 3) litters of up to 6 offspring may be raised in a year.
• Omnivorous - they eat insects and nectar.
• When food is abundant, they can store food in their tail and utilize it when food is scarce or during cold conditions.
• These animals seem to have adapted well to Australia's diverse environmental conditions.
• It is common throughout the island.
• Note: The Little Pygmy Possum (Cercartetus lepidus) is also found on Kangaroo Island but is not as common as the Western Pygmy possum. It is the smallest of the Pygmy possums, weighing less than 10 grams with a body length of about 6 cm!

Wild Guide

Contents

Kangaroo Island Travel Guide

Contents