Saving our Mountain Pygmy-possums

When you think of the Australian Alps, what thoughts come to mind? Is it your latest trip to the snow, a summer bushwalk or the amazing variety of plants and animals that live in the unique landscapes of our high country?

You found your way to this page because you care about Australia's environment and our native animals, I am urging you today to help us with an urgent case.

Perched on Australia’s highest mountain range is a tiny patch of habitat that is unique in this world. The endangered Mountain Pygmy-possum is one of its residents that can only exist in the cold area above the tree line.

Only 2079 Mountain Pygmy-possums remain in the world, and they need your help to survive this spring. The possums urgently need your support to fund a recovery project to save them. There is no other funding this season, and we need all the help we can get to get the project off the ground in time.

The tiny marsupial, about the size of a mandarin, spends winter in hibernation under the snow. About now, the possums will wake up and begin their feeding frenzy to fatten up for next winter.

Just imagine, the tiny animals weigh a mere 30 grams when they awake in spring, and they will have only a few months to put on another 50 grams to sleep through the next winter.

In just a few weeks, in October, the possums’ mating season begins, and by November, there are precious babies in the mothers’ pouches. Did you know, the females live for up to 12 years, which is important for a species that has such a short time to bring up young in the harsh alpine environment. Over years of working with scientists to save this species, I have learned about the many pressures that push the possums to the brink of extinction.

In winter they are at risk from skiers going overhead, compacting the snow cover and trapping the possums sleeping underneath. A warming climate means a receding snow line, which reduces the small patch of suitable habitat even more.

Spring and summer hold their own dangers for the possums. As the snow melts, feral predators move into the boulder fields looking for food. Because the small possums are a welcome meal, something needs to be done immediately.

These pressures have already reduced possum numbers to 1,527 females and 552 males. We cannot afford to lose any more. We have now the opportunity to make the boulder fields safe for the pygmy possums this spring and summer, but I need your help. With enough money we will station an Honours student in the possum habitat to tackle the feral predator problem strategically at its roots.

We need $85,000 to protect the population – a mere $41 per possum, or $155 for a male possum and $56 for a female possum.

Your donation today will help us get our possums through this season so that they have a chance to survive and thrive in years to come.

Thank you on behalf of our Mountain Pygmy-possums.
Leonie Gale, CEO

PS Please give generously today – every little bit help will help.

Donate by phone 02 9221 1949 Fax 02 9233 3615 or click on the possum to donate now.