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Project Noah Nature School
Pseudocheirus peregrinus
After a record heat wave of four consecutive days above 41 degrees this heat stressed ringtail possum came down for a daylight drink and snack. It dipped its paws into water for lapping up later.
In the front yard, this possum came to the dogs drinking bowl when I brought the dog http://www.projectnoah.org/spottings/859... inside for some relief from the heat.
These nocturnal animals are normally very cautious and seldom seen in the daytime. Today it was extremely docile and allowed me to stroke its head. It was too groggy to accept the apple. These possums are very common in urban habitats. http://www.projectnoah.org/spottings/202...
Spotted on Jan 17, 2014
Submitted on Jan 17, 2014
10 Comments
Well done, Martin. A great spotting, and very kind act.
Missed this one! This heat is awful so that's a very good common name.
A friend of mine who understands possums believes that nipping is a bonding ritual and is therefore affectionate rather than aggressive.
Thanks Alice. This possum is now very tame it appeared last night and climbed onto my arm and then bit me. I thought this was rather odd behavior. Maybe it wants meat rather than apples.
My possum comes out only when it gets to about 32 degrees. Saw him in the daytime once, but then two nights, now it is too cold to come out again. Starlings were eating his food today. Thanks for sharing your story and pictures..
Thank you Ava
Thank you Shanna
I think that is what we all do.
Aw. Well done, Martin.
Thanks for being such a kind person and taking care of this little guy.
Thanks Danielle. I think it has recovered by now.
Sweet. Good on you Martin.