Preserving Western Ringtail Possums

Capes Foundation, in partnership with the Western Ringtail Action Group (WRAG), has been working to protect the critically endangered Western Ringtail Possum—a species increasingly vulnerable due to extreme weather and habitat loss.

One of Capes Foundation’s long-standing initiatives has been the sale of Western Ringtail Possum soft toys at Capes Foundation attractions and the Margaret River and Busselton Visitor Centres.

Over the past three years, more than 650 soft toys have been sold, raising valuable funds for conservation efforts.

The most recent proceeds from these sales have been directed toward an important cause: the ‘First Aid for Possums’ course. Developed in response to a pressing need identified by members of the Western Ringtail Action Group (WRAG), this course aimed to elevate the standard of care and training provided to Western Ringtail Possums. Dr. Richard Lucas from Busselton Vet Hospital and Dr. Felicity Bradshaw led the training, tailored specifically for 51 wildlife rehabilitators representing six rehabilitation groups across the South West, gaining skills in:

• Possum welfare and handling
• Emergency care, burns, and broken bones
• Pain management and fluid administration
• Bandaging techniques
• Gut health and bloating management

Organised by GeoCatch, Project Officer Nicole Lincoln was impressed with the level of interest from the animal rehabilitation community. 

We had a great turnout from Geo Bay Wildlife Rescue Inc, FAWNA, Possums R Us, Dunsborough & Busselton Wildlife Care, Bridgetown Wildlife Rescue, and FAWNA Mandurah. The training ensured that all groups have access to the same current first aid procedures, information, and knowledge

Nicole also shared advice for the community:

If you find an injured possum or other native wildlife, call the Wildcare Helpline on 9474 9055. Keep the animal in a safe, dark, and warm place until it can be taken to a vet or carer. Use a towel to handle it, place it in a ventilated box, and don’t give food or water unless advised.

The Capes Foundation and WRAG will continue to advocate and invest in projects vital for the preservation of these endangered species.

The ongoing sales of the Western Ringtail Possum soft toys are part of a continuing regional partnership between the Capes Foundation division of the Margaret River Busselton Tourism Association and the Western Ringtail Action Group.

The soft toys are still available for purchase from the Capes Foundation attractions, including the Margaret River caves, as well as the Busselton and Margaret River Visitor Centres, with $10 from every sale going to possum conservation projects.