These extraordinary creatures are critically endangered, challenged by declining food sources, habitat loss and climate change.
The Mountain Pygmy-possum weighs just 40 grams and is about 150 mm long. Once thought to be extinct, the super small possums were found living in blankets at ski lodge Mt Hotham in the 1960s.
These possums are all about sharing the love, with mums able to carry up to four babies in their pouch from 2 different fathers.
At Mt Hotham, a 'Tunnel of Love' was built to bridge the romantic divide between possums living on opposite sides of the Great Alpine Road, helping them cross safely and meet for breeding.
The Mountain Pygmy-possum lives in alpine and sub-alpine regions across NSW and Victoria. Each spring, they emerge from hibernation to hunt for nutritious Bogong Moths, as well as berries, fruits, nectar, and seeds.
Unfortunately, a massive decline in the number of Bogong Moths in recent years poses a significant threat, and there are now fewer than 2,000 Mountain Pygmy-possums in the wild.
The Australian Conservation Foundation supports the Mountain Pygmy-possum by campaigning for stronger nature laws and habitat protections.
You can support the ACF's conservation efforts and help crown the Mountain Pygmy-possum the 2024 Marsupial of the Year by donating at www.marsupiraloftheyear.com.au
