The Occasional Possum

A couple of weeks ago, for the weekly photo challenge, I posted a photo of an unexpected addition to our family – the possum in the watering can. The next day, the possum did not return.

Somewhat to our surprise, the possum was back in the watering can yesterday! This time, I was able to take a closer photo of it, enjoying its daytime sleep.

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As darkness fell, we were able to observe our visitor as it set off for its nocturnal adventures. In a couple of smooth movements, it was up on the pot stand, where we keep a few herbs and propagation pots. Sensing our presence, it peered at us from behind a pot. Then, thinking the coast was clear, it leapt to the nearest the post, with help from a hanging basket.

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Not happy about the camera flash, it was soon up and away over the roof. 

It has again failed to return today. Perhaps the camera flash was not a pleasant experience worth the risk!

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This possum is clearly a Common Ringtail Possum (Pseudocheirus peregrinus), possibly adolescent. The long tail clearly visible in the last photo above is characteristic of this species. More details of the species can be found here.  (I realise I used the incorrect link, to a brushtail possum, in my earlier post. I apologise for this error.)

Weekly Photo Challenge : Family

Today we discovered we have an extended family, about which we were previously unaware!  My wife wondered why our unused old watering can was rather heavy! It seems a possum has decided to make a home here rather than in the local bush.

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UPDATE – 21st January – With no trail of destruction, our possum has moved on. He/she must have found more suitable accommodation. As long as it isn’t in our roof, we can be quite relaxed.

Footnote : Although they create a nuisance in the garden with their passion for roses, possums are a protected species in New South Wales. You can read more about this nocturnal species here. We will not disturb this one as long as it wants to make its home here.