Ringtail Possum Rescue
"They need a Mum"
Mandurah Wildlife depends on a network of qualified carers for animals that need a mum. The Western Ringtail Possum, as an infant, requires round the clock nurturing with two-hourly feeds and this is best done in a homecare environment.
Possum 'Mum' Sue Morris
Sue Morris arrived in Western Australia after a global journey that started in current day Zimbabwe and included the UK, Canada, New Zealand and Tasmania. For the last 25 years, she has cared for wild animals and she has no plans to stop. Today she specialises in the care of infant ringtail possums and as such is registered with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.
Orphaned Ringtail Possums
A few weeks ago, twin baby possums were found cold and perilously clinging to life after a dog killed their mother. Sue was called and took them in, wrapping them in woollen pouches and administering a special powdered milk formula every two hours. She will often place them bundled close to her chest where they snooze and appear quite happy.
As they mature, they need to be rewilded and this is done by placing them in a large aviary and slowly reducing their milk. Eventually they lose interest in humans and revert to nocturnal habits.
Feeding Possums
A key difference between ringtail possums and brushtail possums is that ringtails are very particular about what they eat. They must have peppermint gum leaves as well as native flowers. Brushtails also are dependent on intense one-to-one motherly care, but because they eat anything, they can be cared for at the Mandurah Wildlife centre at an older age.
Releasing in the right place
Being territorial, once the babies have grown and can take care of themselves, they are returned to where they were found.
Do not feed Possums
In Western Australia it is forbidden to feed native animals if you do not have a proper license. If you wish to become a joey home carer, please contact the Mandurah Wildlife Centre for more information and training.
$20,000 Fine
Please be aware that feeding native wildlife without proper training, means you are more likely to harm the animal, and you risk receiving a fine of up to $20,000.
Feeding or keeping wild animals is only for your own pleasure!
We need your help!
Do you wish to help us rehabilitate injured, sick or orphaned wildlife, then just click on the Donate or Volunteer button next to this article.
