Posted by Leadbeater’s possum Facts
- Length: 15-17 cm (6-7 in)
- Tail: 14.5-20 cm (6-8n)
- Weight: 100-175g
- Social unit: Group
- Scientific name: Gymnobelideus leadbeateri
- Status: Critically endangered
Notable for its rediscovery in 1961, after 52 years of presumed extinction, Leadbeater’s possum has a grey back with a dark central stripe from head to tail, and off-white underside.
Speedy and elusive in trees, it feeds at night on small invertebrates and tree juices, such as gum, sap, and nectar. Colonies of 10-12 individuals comprise a senior breeding pair and their offspring, mainly males. Females l defend the group’s territory.