Trail camera captures rare sighting of unique creature: 'Fascinating animals'

An Australian wildlife observer recently captured remarkable footage of the critically endangered western ringtail possum, signaling that the species may still be thriving in its natural habitat. The videos, taken with a trail camera on the back of a property in Little Grove near Albany, Western Australia, were shared online by YouTuber Doug Rorison (@dougrorison1211).

The clips reveal the possum exploring a rabbit burrow, navigating trees and fallen branches, and investigating the camera with noticeable curiosity. One viewer commented, "Fascinating wildlife."

Initially, Rorison thought the marsupial was a white-tailed possum, but further research confirmed it as a western ringtail possum, which the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies as critically endangered. The species faces threats from rising temperatures, a drying climate, and habitat loss due to urban expansion.

Current estimates suggest fewer than 3,500 mature western ringtail possums remain, though population data is limited. Trail cameras like Rorisons are important tools for monitoring the health and numbers of endangered species. Following his discovery, Rorison informed the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation, and Attractions.

Protecting endangered species helps maintain healthy ecosystems, which in turn supports biodiversity, food security, and medicinal resources. Forests and oceans act as vital carbon sinks, making their preservation essential in combating climate change, according to the United Nations.

Conservation organizations in Western Australia are encouraging residents to make their yards more wildlife-friendly to support the survival of the western ringtail possum. Recommendations include planting native vegetation to provide food and keeping pets indoors at night to reduce predation risks.

Rorison plans to take additional steps by constructing a drey, or nest, on his property to offer the possum a safe refuge from foxes and cats.

Author: Gavin Porter