Australian National Botanic Gardens

There are three species of possum living in the Gardens: the common brushtail possum, common ringtail possum and sugar glider.

Possums are nocturnal animals. They usually spend the day in a sheltered hollow before coming out at night to move through the tree canopy looking for food.

Common brushtails (easily recognised by their fluffy tail) can sometimes be seen in the late afternoon and evening, running across lawns and climbing trees throughout the Gardens.

The most fascinating of our possums is the sugar glider. This cute critter has wing-like membranes that allow it to soar from tree to tree in search of food.

Possums are solitary animals, but you may be lucky enough to spot a mother carrying a baby on her back.