The Tasmanian common brushtail possum is sometimes recognised as a sub-species of the mainland species – a view mostly based on geographic separation as well as size (the Tasmanian brushtail is larger) and their increased tolerance to temperature changes. On mainland Australia, common brushtail possums have declined or even disappeared from some areas. The reason for this is not entirely clear, but it could be due to predation from foxes.

Preferring to be above ground, the common brushtail possum nests in tree hollows, in rock caves, fallen logs and roof spaces. They feed on a combination of eucalypt and other leaves, as well as grazing on the ground. Being one of the few native species to have benefited from urban spread and European land-use practices, the brushtail possum thrives in vegetable gardens and orchards (as many Tasmanians know all too well!).

The common brushtail possum can be a range of colours, from very light-golden to black. The black brushtail lives mainly in wetter forests, and was once the basis of a very lucrative fur industry during the first half of the twentieth century. Thousands of pelts were sent to fur markets in Australia and overseas, with the Tasmanian black brushtail pelts fetching the highest prices – especially the black ones. Possum fur rugs were even given to royalty as a gift from the people of Tasmania!