Brush-tail possum
Trichosurus vulpecula
The brush-tail possum, or koomal, is found amongst the trees surrounding Mussel Pool, as well as in the northern conservation areas of the Park.
As another of the nocturnal mammal species within the Park, it is unlikely that visitors would see these animals during the Park’s opening hours.
Instead, you may spot some of the ‘possum boxes’ up in the trees throughout the Park. These artificial 'hollows' supplement the short supply of natural hollows found within the Park, which are critical for nesting and protection for this (and many other) species.
Historical land use has resulted in a shortage of suitable hollows for our resident possum population so these boxes act as replacement hollows for the animals to use year-round for resting and breeding. There are over 30 possum-sized boxes installed throughout the Park, but particularly throughout the Mussel Pool recreation area, which are monitored regularly to check for use.
| Family | Phalangeridae |
| Scientific name | Trichosurus vulpecula |
| Noongar name | koomal |
| Common name | common brushtail possum |
| Conservation status | Least Concern |
| Habitat | wetlands, woodlands |
Banner image courtesy of Houndstooth Studio.