Mountain Pygmy Possum

SPECIES Mountain Pygmy Possum
TAXONOMY Burramys parvus
STATUS Critically Endangered (RedList.org); Endangered (ala.org.au); Protected under Australian Law

Being nocturnal and secretive, the Mountain Pygmy Possum is found only in alpine and subalpine regions above 1400 m where Mountain Plum-pines grow. It resides among the snow boulder fields in the Bogong High Plains, Mt Buller, and Mt Hotham in Victoria, and Mt Kosciusko in New South Wales. It is the only Australian mammal whose distribution is limited to where there is a continuous period of snow cover for up to six months. It is also the only possum that lives on the ground.

It is also the only marsupial to hibernate, and it does so for up to five months under a cover of snow. Nests are from two to four meters deep under the snow, with a 20 cm diameter nest made of moss. They will store food for this time, and occasionally wake to nibble. During hibernation, they drop their temperature from 35 celsius down to 2 celsius. Males will nest in slightly warmer locations and will wake before the females in the spring.

Appearance
Often mistaken for a rodent, this tiny marsupial is similar in size to a mouse weighing from 40 grm up to 80 grams for some females. Their body length is 11 cm, with an even longer prehensile (capable of grasping) of 14 cm. They have dense grey fur, are pale underneath, and have a darker ring around the eyes.

Threats
The Mountain Pygmy Possum was considered to be extinct until rediscovered at a ski lodge in 1966. Since that time it has faced many challenges with the development of ski resorts and the human encroachment that comes with that. Major fires have burnt out their native habitat, predation occurs by introduced species such as the feral fox. These have all impacted not only populations, but the genetic diversity of the species. 

Climate change has also had a direct impact on their survival. With such a small geographic region requirement, this tiny marsupial is listed as Critically Endangered.  Research through local groups, government, and several zoo captive breeding programs are driving efforts to repopulate the species.

Food Sources
The Mountain Pygmy Possum is an omnivore, consuming insects, seeds, and fruits. The favoured source is the Bogong Moth. Because of hibernation, they will double their weight by building up fat reserves.

Biology

  • It is now known that the female can live for over 12 years.

  • Mating occurs in October and November.

  • Males do not participate in raising the young.

  • Females provide for and tend offspring.

  • Joeys (up to four) will remain in the pouch for up to five weeks.

  • Joeys remain in the nest until weaned at 10 weeks.

  • Capable of breeding at one year.

  • Full maturity at two years.

Updated 5 May 2021