Safe haven for possums

Work is set to start on a unique environmental project in Eaton to rescue western ringtail possums from the brink of extinction.

Funding of $20,000 from WIRES and Landcare Australia provided to the Leschenault Catchment Council and supported by the Shire of Dardanup has helped make this project possible.

Under the project, a Possum Sanctuary at Leicester Reserve in Eaton will be established to provide a fenced safe-haven for the drought-impacted possum populations and allow their numbers to recover and thrive.

The sanctuary will become a tourist attraction and educational “outdoor classroom” over time. with project funding to allow for installation of glow-in-the-dark interpretative signage.

LCC project officer Katrina Zeehandelaar-Adams said with the ringtail possums’ habitat under the increasing effects of climate change, it was estimated the local population could become extinct within 10-15 years.

Project work will begin soon including upcoming events to educate and involve the community about the project.