Petropseudes dahli

TAXONOMY

Petropseudes dahli (Collett, 1895), Northern Territory, Australia.

OTHER COMMON NAMES

English: Rock-haunting possum, rock possum; French: Ringtail des rochers; German: Felsenringbeutler.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS

Length 20.9–25.2 in (53–64 cm), weight 45.2–70.6 oz (1,280–2,000 g).

DISTRIBUTION

Three isolated populations in northwestern Queensland, Northern Territory, and northern Western Australia.

HABITAT

Rocky areas.

BEHAVIOR

Partly terrestrial, hiding and resting in crevices and under rocks during the day. During the night they emerge and climb trees to feed. Rock ringtails appear to live in extended family groups, up to seven animals have been seen together, including young of several developmental stages.

FEEDING ECOLOGY AND DIET

Leaves, flowers of trees and fruits are eaten of a variety of species.

REPRODUCTIVE BIOLOGY

Normally one young per time is observed, and reproduction seems to be non-seasonal. Usually monogamous.

CONSERVATION STATUS

Though not listed by the IUCN, considered vulnerable by some authors due to a contraction of range since discovery in 1890s.

SIGNIFICANCE TO HUMANS

None known.