Mountain Pygmy Possum

Scientific name: Burramys parvus
  • Author(s)
    Louise Carter
  • Updated
    21/04/22
  • Read time
    2 minutes
Mountain Pygmy Possum, Burramys parvus Click to enlarge image
Mountain Pygmy Possum, Burramys parvus The Mountain Pygmy Possum is the only Australian mammal adapted to live exclusively in the alpine zone. Image: G A Hoye
© Australian Museum

Fast Facts

  • IUCN Conservation Status
    CRITICALLY ENDANGERED (CR)
    Australian Federal Conservation Status
    Endangered
  • Classification
    Genus
    Burramys
    Species
    parvus
    Family
    Burramyidae
    Order
    Diprotodontia
    Class
    Mammalia
    Subphylum
    Vertebra
    Phylum
    Chordata
    Kingdom
    Animalia
  • Size Range
    Body length up to 11cm

The Mountain Pygmy Possum is the only marsupial in the world known to store food and hibernate for extended periods. It is also the only Australian mammal adapted to live exclusively in the alpine zone.

Identification

Its fur is grey brown above and lighter underneath. Its tail is longer than its body and usually coiled. Its nose and feet are pink and there are darker patches of fur around its eyes.

Habitat

Alpine areas above 1400 m

Distribution

Isolated populations in NSW and north eastern Victoria

Feeding and diet

It has a diet of Bogong Moths, other invertebrates, seeds and fruits.

Breeding behaviours

Females normally have one litter of four young following snowmelt in spring.

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