South Coast NRM are engaging the Albany community and implementing targeted conservation strategies to conserve Western Ringtail Possums through the Australian Government’s Saving Native Species program. Albany is one of three remaining strongholds for the species in southwest Western Australia, with their range likely to shrink further as the region becomes drier. The possums are reliant on leaf moisture, so urban areas with watered gardens may be able to act as climate refuges – the species is already found in high densities in urban areas.
The project involves recovery, monitoring and awareness raising activities in urban and peri-urban areas of Albany. Project activities include wildlife-friendly gardening workshops; providing possum nest boxes, water sources and possum-friendly plants; citizen science opportunities; and rebates for dog fences and ‘catios’ – outdoor cat patios or enclosures.
Read more about the project or view the latest update.
Image: South Coast NRM, Western ringtail possum, Bronte Van Helden
